State accepting applications for innovative sustainability projects for airports

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Transportation Aviation Division is now accepting applications for the newly created Sustainable Aviation Grant program for airports.

During its 2023 session, the Legislature passed Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1125, providing funding for Sustainable Aviation Grant projects recommended for funding by WSDOT Aviation during the 2023-2025 biennium. Sustainable aviation projects may include but are not limited to mobile battery charging technology, hydrogen electrolyzers and storage, electric ground equipment, and hangar charging technology.

To apply, airports can fill out the Sustainable Aviation Grant program application (PDF 3.3MB) and refer to the airport aid application checklist (PDF 527KB) for potential supporting documentation to be submitted with the application. WSDOT also requires applicants to submit airport aid grant assurances (PDF 96KB) with the application package.

Applications are due no later than 5 p.m. Friday, August 16. WSDOT will then submit a prioritized list of recommended projects for funding to the Legislature and anticipates awarding grants after July 1, 2025.

WSDOT will evaluate projects based on their ability to advance the state of sustainable aviation technology and lead to future innovation, reduce the harmful effects of aviation-related emissions, reduce the reliance on fossil fuels, and reduce environmental health disparities and create environmental benefits to overburdened communities and vulnerable populations.

Information on how to apply for an Airport Transformation Grant is included in the Sustainable Aviation Grant program application. The Legislature also directed WSDOT to identify and recommend a selection of sustainable aviation projects for funding in the 2025-2027 biennium.

For more information, visit WSDOT Aviation’s Airport Aid Grant Program website.

166,800 electric vehicle

registrations in Washington in 2023, up from 114,600 in 2022.

87 wetland compensation sites

actively monitored on 918 acres in 2023.

25,000 safe animal crossings

in the Snoqualmie Pass East Project area since 2014.