VISALIA, Calif. (AP) - An agricultural city in Central California is applying for federal funds available to those opting out of a program that subsidizes air service for small communities.
The Fresno Bee reports (https://bit.ly/1pfZWxw ) that Visalia is giving up on the Essential Air service program after SeaPort Airlines abruptly ended service in mid-January. The government offers funds to cities leaving the program for at least 10 years because they will be saving the government money.
Visalia City Council voted unanimously Monday to apply for $3.7 million, which city officials say can only be used for airport upgrades.
The Visalia airport will remain open for corporate and general aviation.
Airport manager Mario Cifuentez says Visalia will be the first in the nation to apply for the money.
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Information from: The Fresno Bee, https://www.fresnobee.com
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