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Port authority board approves $255 million project to modernize laguardia airport’s infrastructure

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24-Jul-2013 Site, building and utility improvements will generate 1,500 jobs and $364 million in economic activity

LaGuardia Airport's infrastructure will soon undergo an array of site, building and utility modernization projects following a $255 million authorization approved by the Port Authority's Board of Commissioners. The Board's action is the latest in the agency's ongoing program to upgrade the airport's infrastructure to meet current operational needs and future passenger growth.

The authorization for LaGuardia infrastructure improvements will generate 1,500 jobs, $112 million in wages and $364 million in economic activity for the region, with more than 95 percent of the Port Authority's expenditures reimbursable in federal passenger facility charges.

The action follows previous Board authorizations for design and construction of an East Garage and East End Substation for the airport at an estimated cost of $190 million. Additionally, Delta Air Lines - the airport's largest carrier - has embarked on projects to improve Terminals C and D and upgrade customer service.

"Modernizing the infrastructure of the Port Authority's major airports is a top priority for the agency and vital to the region's economic success,'' said Port Authority Chairman David Samson. "With our airports expected to set a new combined record for passengers in 2013, and robust growth projected in the coming decades, it is critical that we advance projects like this today to meet the travel demands of tomorrow."

"These infrastructure projects will help ready LaGuardia Airport for aviation's next generation as it modernizes one of New York City's premier gateways,'' said Port Authority Vice Chairman Scott Rechler. "Governor Cuomo's commitment to upgrading New York's airports is central to his goal of making New York State the global leader in tourism, creating thousands of jobs and continuing to grow our economy."

LaGuardia Airport handled 25.7 million in 2012, the third most in the airport's 74-year history, with a forecast for 34 million passengers by 2030. CONTACT: Port Authority of New York and New Jersey 212-435-7777