Orangeburg airport gets $4.39M FAA grant for runway

The Federal Aviation Administration has granted the city of Orangeburg a $4.39 million grant through the Airport Improvement Programs to rehabilitate existing runway at Orangeburg Municipal Airport.  

The grant was awarded in partnership with U.S. Rep. James Clyburn, D-S.C., and will fund a portion of the final phase of the runway rehabilitation at the airport, according to a news release. 

“We are excited to move forward with the final phase of this airport runway rehabilitation project. This grant represents a major milestone for Orangeburg Municipal Airport and our city’s future economic development opportunities,” Orangeburg Mayor Michael Butler said in the release. “Ensuring the safety and reliability of our airport not only supports air travel but also strengthens our local economy and positions Orangeburg as a key hub for transportation in the region. Pilots, passengers and the entire community will benefit from a safer, more durable runway for years to come.” 

The project will rehabilitate 5,399 feet of the existing runway as a part of the city’s goal to create more reliable and modern local and regional access way to its airport, the release said.  

“Because of Congressman James Clyburn’s steadfast support and leadership in helping to secure this FAA grant, a beautiful and functional airport runway is on the horizon,” Sidney Evering III, Orangeburg city administrator, said in the release. “We will preserve the history of the airport while incorporating modern improvements that will support the growth and needs of our community.” 

The FAA has supported OGB improvements before similar to the Airport Improvement Project. According to the release, the grant is associated with an Airport Infrastructure Grant that funds the remnants of the project.