The federal government announced $21.9 million for six Northern Manitoba airports, including Thompson, May 19.
The biggest beneficiary of the federal government funding is the Gods Lake Narrows airport, which is receiving $12,872,635 for rehabilitation of airside surfaces and electrical systems. $6,282,716 is going to the Shamattawa airport for rehabilitation of airside surfaces. The Lac Brochet and Red Sucker Lake airports are getting $1,156,265 and $1,000,203, respectively, for installation of wildlife control fencing. The Thompson airport is getting $355,680 for the purchase of a sweeper to assist with clearing ice and snow from airside surfaces. The Flin Flon airport is getting $303,159 for replacement of its sand storage shed and relocation of the airport’s beacon to better identify its location to pilots at night.
“We know how vital airports are to urban centres and remote communities,” said Winnipeg South centre MP Jim Carr. "The investment our government is making will help ensure continued safe and reliable airport operations for residents, many of whom depend on their local airports not only for personal travel and business, but also for community resupply of essential goods and access to routine and emergency medical care in larger centres. This is part of how we build stronger more resilient and inclusive communities across Canada.”
“In addition to supporting personal travel, local airports are key connectors for business, health care, social services, and emerging resource development sectors,” said Minister of Transport Omar Alghabra. “These investments will improve access to safe, reliable and efficient air transportation options, and will help us deliver our promise to build safer, healthier and stronger communities across Canada. This is more important than ever as we work towards reopening our economies affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.”
