Shift taxiway

The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) awarded Blue Ridge Airport Authority a $4.564 million Project Grant under the Airport Improvement Program (CFDA 20.106) on September 3, 2025, to fund the construction phase of taxiway infrastructure improvements at Blue Ridge Regional Airport in Ridgeway, Virginia. The project involves shifting the existing paved Taxiway A1 by 77 feet to bring the airport into compliance with current Federal Aviation Administration standards. This final construction phase is scheduled for completion by September 2, 2029, and will serve the Spencer, Virginia area by enhancing airport infrastructure and operational safety.

The Airport Improvement Program, which administers this award alongside Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and COVID-19 relief funding, supports the development and modernization of airport infrastructure nationwide. The grant funds critical airfield improvements that contribute to the FAA's strategic objectives of safety and operational excellence while maintaining a comprehensive system of public-use airports adequate to meet civil aeronautics needs. As the recipient government entity, Blue Ridge Airport Authority is responsible for project execution, financial management, record retention for three years post-completion, and periodic reporting on project procurement, contract awards, and work progress to the FAA.

Activities and expected outcomes

This project shifts existing paved taxiway A1 by 77 feet to bring the airport into conformity with current standards. This grant funds the final phase, which consists of construction. Intended beneficiary: this grant will provide federal funding for airports associated with spencer, virginia.