Capitol News

State Representative Karl Bohnak has announced that he secured $3 million in state funding for the Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport. The funding was included in the state budget approved by the Legislature last week. The airport serves more than 82,000 passengers and handles over 5 million pounds of cargo each year.

“This one-time $3 million grant will give our Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport a massive boost, both in the short-term for infrastructure improvements and for long-term planning and growth,” said Bohnak, R-Deerton. “Our airport is a pillar of both tourism and business for the entire Upper Peninsula. I was honored to represent their need for state support throughout the budget negotiation process, as I was able to speak with both Republicans and Democrats about the importance of supporting Marquette Sawyer with additional resources.”

The funding will be used to support air service and invest in infrastructure at Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport, which is currently the only airport in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula that does not receive federal funding.

“We at Marquette County are very pleased with the announcement of secured funding for the Airport,” said Duane DuRay, Marquette County Administrator. “We cannot thank Representative Bohnak enough for his continued and future support of both Marquette County and the Airport. This funding will address critical needs at Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport and help us provide a more efficient, reliable, and competitive airport for Marquette County and the surrounding region.”

The state funds will be allocated toward four strategic priorities at the airport.