$1 million awarded to Grand Forks International Airport to expand service capabilities – Grand Forks Herald

GRAND FORKS — Grand Forks International Airport has received a $1 million grant that will be used to support a project to create new nonstop air service to Denver.

Mayor Brandon Bochenski on Friday morning called the announcement a “big deal” for the community and that it likely means service to Denver will happen, albeit several months away.

“This is the aviation event we’ve been waiting for,” Bochenski said. “This is the big step that determines everything else.”

The funding will be used to guarantee revenue and marketing to launch and support the major carrier’s new services in the hub market, city officials said. Only 14 communities nationwide — or about 30% of those that applied — received funding this grant cycle, Bochenski said.

In July, three federal state delegates — Sen. John Hoeven, Sen. Kevin Cramer and Rep. Kelly Armstrong — wrote to the deputy director of the U.S. Department of Transportation, showing their support for Grand Forks’ efforts to expand service to local residents. air travelers.

The three Republicans noted that the community, particularly its business sector, is struggling with limited flights and said access to more service options would greatly support existing businesses and benefit all travelers in the region.

“Grand Forks is a vibrant community that serves as a hub for technology entrepreneurship in the region. This is leading to growth in many sectors in North Dakota, including but not limited to agriculture, energy and off-grid technology,” the letter to Brooke Chapman said. , Deputy Director of DOT. “To ensure it can continue to meet the needs of the community, Grand Forks International Airport is seeking federal funding to support the creation of nonstop service to Denver International Airport by SkyWest Airlines. This proposal has significant support from the local community as well as from the local community. funds are provided by the City of Grand Forks and the Grand Forks Regional Economic Development Corporation.”

Hoeven issued a statement after news of the grant broke.

“With the growing demand for travel options driven by the continued growth of the Grand Forks region, it is vital that North Dakotans can safely and efficiently travel throughout the country,” Hoeven said. “This award from DOT will support ongoing efforts to open new routes. between Grand Forks and Denver, which helps Grand Forks Airport better meet demand in the area.”

Work to bring in another carrier has been underway for the past year, and Bochenski formed a committee in the fall of 2023 to explore the possibility. Formation was followed by an attempt to raise funds to increase the chances of receiving federal grants. Local fundraising efforts generated approximately $500,000 in matching funding.

“In my 30 years in the industry, I have never seen greater community response and involvement in the implementation of this application. This is a testament to the leadership of the City of Grand Forks,” said Sonya Murray, a spokeswoman for The Meehan Aviation Group, which assisted the city with the process. “The award of this grant strengthens Grand Forks’ position to attract and support United’s frequent daily flights to Denver as we continue to work to improve Delta and Allegiant’s offerings.”

Bochenski said it will likely be 18 to 24 months before flights to Denver begin. On Friday he was encouraged by news of the grant, as well as the prospects for development.

“A lot of people didn’t think it would be possible in the time frame, but we turned it around quickly,” Bochenski said. “It’s great when the plan comes true. I’m just excited and happy.”