The Kent State University Airport received a $600,000 grant in August from the Federal Aviation Administration. The grant, announced by U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown and U.S. Representative Tim Ryan, will be used for future airport needs.

“Investments like this will continue northeast Ohio’s growth as a transportation center and support the infrastructure required to keep flight paths safe and accessible in the area,” Ryan said in a press statement. “This grant for Kent State’s airport will help the university continue to meet the aviation needs in our area while balancing the surrounding community’s interests and maintaining high environmental standards.”

According to airport operations coordinator Dave Paluga, the grant will be used to carry out a master plan of the airport.

“It’s been a while since the last master plan was done. The master plan is an analysis of the airport that will allow us to determine a long-term plan,” Paluga said.

The master plan is a 20-year outlook for the airport that outlines goals for future airport development. The analysis will be firmed out to a consultant that works with the university and local community.

“Kent State University Airport provides important travel services to Stow and Kent-area small businesses, pilots, and visitors. This funding will improve the safety and efficiency of the airport so it can remain a reliable option for the region,” Brown said in the same press release.

Contact Alice Dunaway at [email protected].