GUSTINE — The City of Gustine will receive $57,000 in federal funding to expand fuel access at its municipal airport, part of a broader $7.4 million investment in Central Valley airport infrastructure announced this week by Rep. Adam Gray (CA-13).

The funding, awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation and administered by the Federal Aviation Administration, will support upgrades at airports in Gustine, Chowchilla, Madera, Atwater, and Merced County. Projects include runway reconstruction, lighting installation, weather monitoring system updates, and safety improvements.

“Our Valley is the most productive agricultural region in the state,” Gray said in a statement. “To make sure our producers can get their goods where they need to go, our municipal airports must be up to the most current safety and efficiency standards.”

Gustine’s grant will fund a self-serve fuel island, expanding 24-hour access for pilots and agricultural operators who rely on the airport for crop spraying and regional transport. City officials say the upgrade will improve operational flexibility and support future growth.

Gustine Municipal Airport, established in 1946, spans 45 acres and features a 3,200-foot asphalt runway. It averages about 20 aircraft operations per day and hosts 19 based aircraft, including single-engine planes and ultralights.

The airport plays a vital role in supporting local agriculture and rural connectivity. City planners have outlined potential long-term improvements, including runway extension and pavement strengthening to accommodate heavier aircraft.

Other grants in the region include $6 million for runway safety improvements in Chowchilla, $575,500 for pavement upgrades in Madera, and nearly $100,000 for lighting installation in Merced County.

Gray emphasized the importance of continued federal investment in local infrastructure. “I’m proud to announce these critical funds for our airports, which will support our producers, our economy and our community,” he said. “I remain focused on bringing home as much federal funding as possible.”