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Province announces funding for Prince Rupert Airport, Metlakatla heliport
April 3, 2024 By Seth Forward, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Prince Rupert Northern View
The Cold Lake Regional Airport. (Photo: Chantel Downes, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter) Funding was announced on April 2 for renovations to the Prince Rupert Airport and the Metlakatla emergency heliport.
Metlakatla secured more than $500,000 to upgrade the heliport, while the Prince Rupert Airport will see $60,000 for upgrades to its security and communications systems.
The funding is part of $11 million the province announced to small airports across B.C., including $2 million to the Terrace Airport for runway resurfacing and associated infrastructure upgrades.
North Coast MLA Jennifer Rice said the upgrades are particularly important for the remote North Coast, where air travel is used frequently for medical emergencies.
“Here on the North Coast, we require reliable air transit every day. Whether it is for medical appointments, work or emergencies, investing in these upgrades is great news for everyone along the coast who rely on these services,” Rice said.
“Although airports are federally regulated, we know support is needed for rural and Indigenous communities. That’s why we are investing in YPR’s security and communications systems and upgrading Metlakatla’s heliport not only to bolster access to healthcare but to catalyze economic growth and connectivity.”
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