Pitt Meadows Regional Airport will be getting a new helipad after receiving $280,000 in funding from the provincial government.
The funding comes as part of the B.C. Air Access Program, recently announced by Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows MLA Doug Bing.
"With the completion of the main terminal helipad in Pitt Meadows, YPK airport will be able to expand its services," said Bing. "Additionally, local touring businesses and emergency crews will also share in the benefits from the upgraded facilities."
The project involves constructing a new helipad across from the main passenger terminal, increasing safety by creating a greater separation between the different types of aircraft using the airport.
Through the B.C. Air Access Program, the ministry cost shares with public airports on projects such as lighting and navigational systems, terminal building expansion or upgrades, and runway improvements. Such projects will allow airports to improve safety, accommodate larger aircraft and more frequent flights, and further support the continuing growth of local and provincial economies.
The ministry has committed $24 million over the past three years for the B.C. Air Access Program. This year's program is providing over $10 million for airport infrastructure improvement projects throughout the province.
The program also encourages funding partnerships with the federal government, local and regional governments and agencies, and the private sector. Last year, the program provided $8 million toward improvements at 23 regional airports.