New Perimeter Fencing Planned for Hilo’s Airport

***Updated 7:06 p.m, June 18,and 10:06 a.m., June 19.***

Hilo’s airport will receive a $2.2 million grant to improve security, US Sen. Mazie Hirono announced today.

The Federal Aviation Administration grant will pay for the installation of about 12,500 feet of perimeter fencing to deter unauthorized persons and vehicles as well as animals from entering the airfield.

The grant will cover 90% of the $2.7 million project, with the state funding the remainder.

The effort will replace fencing along the west and north side of the airport, continuing a project that began along the east side.

A state Department of Transportation spokeswoman said the effort is needed to replace fencing that is aged and corroded, and to bring the airport into compliance with federal regulations.

A construction timeline for the project has not yet been set.

The grant is in addition to $6.4 million in funding for improvements at Hilo International Airport over the past several months.

The FAA last month announced a $3.1 federal grant to rebuild the runway.

Also, Gov. Neil Abercrombie in April released $3.3 million for the state’s portion of the cost of a new fire station to replace one that does not meet federal standards. The total cost of the new facility is expected to range from $13 million to $15 million, the DOT said.

A dedication ceremony was held last week for a new $17 million fire-fighting facility at Kona International Airport.