Extend/expand runway

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) awarded County of Custer, South Dakota a Project Grant totaling $428,024.21 under the Airport Improvement Program (CFDA 20.106) on September 5, 2025. This Phase 1 grant funds an environmental assessment for a runway extension and expansion project at Custer Area Airport. The project will extend and expand Runway 8/26 by an additional 702 feet in length and 15 feet in width to bring the airport into conformity with current FAA standards. The grant is scheduled for ultimate completion by September 4, 2029, providing a four-year project period typical of FAA airport infrastructure development initiatives.

The Airport Improvement Program, which encompasses traditional AIP funding, Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) appropriations, and COVID-19 relief grants, supports the FAA's strategic objectives of safety, operational excellence, and long-term economic benefits through transportation infrastructure investment. This award directly benefits airport sponsors and the flying public by supporting the development of a nationwide system of public-use airports adequate to meet civil aeronautics needs. The environmental assessment phase is a critical preliminary step that must be completed before physical construction of the runway improvements can proceed.

Activities and expected outcomes

This project extends and expands runway 8/26 an additional 702 feet in length and 15 feet in width to bring the airport into conformity with current standards. This grant funds phase 1, which consist of an environmental assessment. Intended beneficiary: this grant will provide federal funding for airports associated with custer, south dakota.