The Santa Barbara Municipal Airport is getting an infrastructure overhaul thanks to a Federal Aviation Administration grant of just over $3 million.

Retiring Congresswoman Lois Capps announced the FAA funding, most of which will go toward the airport’s $3.37 million airfield lighting and safety project.

“The project will improve airfield pavement, markings, lighting, and security fencing to incorporate FAA best practices,” said Airport Director Hazel Johns in a press release.

Improvements to the airport’s runway lighting system will reduce electricity usage and maintenance costs. “The AIP program is very important for small airports allowing major capital improvements to be completed with a very modest local match,” Johns said in the press release.

For the safety portion of the project, a 3,425-foot wildlife perimeter fence will be installed to protect the airport from unauthorized entry and wildlife hazards. Additionally, about 40,000 square yards of the airport’s northeast apron will be repaved.
“The Santa Barbara Municipal Airport provides a wonderful service to our Central Coast community,” Capps said in a release. “This grant will improve airport safety while reducing maintenance costs, enhancing the airport’s ability to serve the Central Coast.”