Install runway visual guidance system

The City of Cortez received a $234,038.95 Project Grant award dated August 13, 2025, from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under the Airport Improvement Program (CFDA 20.106) to install a Runway Visual Guidance System at Cortez, Colorado. This Phase Two construction project will install Runway End Identifier Lights (REIL) and a Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI) system at both thresholds of Runway 3/21, bringing the airport into conformity with current Federal Aviation Administration standards for visual guidance and landing safety.

The grant funds critical airport infrastructure improvements that enhance operational safety and efficiency for the Cortez Regional Airport. With an ultimate completion date of August 12, 2029, this four-year project represents the FAA's ongoing commitment to modernizing the nationwide system of public-use airports. As a local government municipality with established expertise in airport infrastructure development, the City of Cortez will serve as the project sponsor and awardee responsible for executing the construction phase and ensuring compliance with FAA grant requirements and reporting obligations.

Activities and expected outcomes

This project installs the runway end identifier lights system and precision approach path indicator system for runway 3/21, at both runway thresholds to bring the airport into conformity with current standards. This grant funds phase two, which consists of construction. Intended beneficiary: this grant will provide federal funding for airports associated with cortez, colorado.