Wicomico County Lands $1.75M FAA Grant for Airport Upgrades

Wicomico County, MD - Wicomico County has been awarded $1.75 million from the Federal Aviation Administration to make improvements at Salisbury-Ocean City: Wicomico Regional Airport.

The FAA awarded the funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation under its FY 2026 FAA Contract Tower Program. The money will go toward replacing the interior air traffic control tower consoles and related equipment.

The upgrade is aimed at modernizing the airport's infrastructure and improving how it operates day to day. Air traffic control equipment plays a direct role in keeping flights safe and on schedule.

County Executive Julie Giordano welcomed the news. "This investment is another important step forward for Salisbury Regional Airport and our continued commitment to maintaining safe, reliable, and modern aviation infrastructure," she said. "We are grateful to Congressman Andy Harris and our federal partners for supporting projects that strengthen transportation and economic development opportunities for Wicomico County and the entire region."

Congressman Andy Harris, whose office announced the grant, also weighed in on what the funding means for the area. "Wicomico Regional Airport is a critical transportation hub for Maryland's First District, driving commerce, travel, and economic activity across the region," Harris said. "The FAA award will fund air traffic control tower operations at Salisbury-Ocean City Wicomico Regional Airport and maintain commercial air service. I appreciate Wicomico County's leadership on the award and look forward to the impact this investment will have on our local economy."

Salisbury-Ocean City: Wicomico Regional Airport connects the Eastern Shore to the rest of the country. It supports businesses, tourism, and travelers throughout the region.

Federal grants like this one reduce the financial burden on local governments while keeping airports up to date with safety and technology standards. Upgrades to air traffic control systems are among the most important investments an airport can make.

The $1.75 million award is a win for Wicomico County and the broader Eastern Shore community.