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Hawaii revamps airports with multi-million dollar state hand-out

Tuesday, 22 April 20143 min read

Governor Neil Abercrombie said he is releasing $335 million in state funds to upgrade Hawaii airports.

As the next step of the Hawaii Airports Modernization Program, Gov. Abercrombie said he wants to turn the state’s airports into "world-class facilities."

"Any investment in our airports is an investment in our economy and jobs," he said.

The governor outlined four main projects which had been identified by state legislators.

The lion’s share of the funds – over $305 million – will be allocated to a new car rental facility and road improvements at Kahului Airport.

Most of the remainder of funds will be spent on projects at Honolulu International Airport.

Almost $15 million will go toward roadway improvements at the overseas terminal and a further $11.7 million for an extra 28,000 square feet of concession space at Ewa Concourse.

The latter project will "improve the passenger experience by bringing the concessions closer to the gates," according to a statement released by the governor’s office.

Finally, $3.3 million is also earmarked for a new aircraft rescue and fire station for Hilo International Airport.