Reconstruct runway lighting; rehabilitate runway

The City of Cortez received a $7.74 million Project Grant on September 18, 2025, under the Airport Improvement Program, Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Programs, and COVID-19 Airports Programs (CFDA 20.106), administered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Northwest Mountain Region. This award funds the final construction phase of a comprehensive airport infrastructure project at Cortez, Colorado, consisting of two primary components: reconstruction of Runway 3/21 lighting systems that have reached the end of their useful life, and rehabilitation of 7,205 linear feet of existing paved runway surface to maintain structural integrity and minimize foreign object debris accumulation.

The grant-funded project is scheduled for completion by September 17, 2029, and will enhance airport safety, operational efficiency, and infrastructure longevity. These infrastructure improvements support the FAA's strategic objectives of maintaining a safe and efficient nationwide airport system while supporting regional economic development. The City of Cortez, as the designated awardee, is responsible for project execution, compliance reporting, and financial stewardship of the federal funds through final project closeout.

Activities and expected outcomes

This project reconstructs existing runway 3/21 lighting that has reached the end of its useful life. This project rehabilitates 7,205 feet of existing paved runway 3/21 to maintain the structural integrity and minimize foreign object debris to extend its useful life. This grant funds the final phase, which consists of construction. Intended beneficiary: this grant will provide federal funding for airports associated with cortez, colorado.