The Madras Municipal Airport is set to receive $102,769 in federal infrastructure funding to begin replacing its Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS) — a safety-critical piece of equipment that pilots rely on for real-time weather data when landing and departing from the airport.
The funding was announced Monday as part of a nearly $19 million package for eight Oregon airports, distributed by the U.S. Department of Transportation and championed by Oregon Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden alongside several House members.
Safety Investment for a Growing Community
Airport Manager Lorraine Martinelli said the current weather observation system has served the airport well, but its components are no longer serviceable and the system is nearing the end of its useful life.
"The funding will provide for the design phase of the Automated Weather Observation System replacement," Martinelli said. "The AWOS is heavily relied on for the safety of our pilots and crews. These funds will enhance safety, ensuring our facility continues to meet the needs of our growing community and the region we serve."
Martinelli noted that the grant covers the design phase only. The airport plans to apply for additional federal funding next year to cover the full construction and replacement of the system.
Part of a Statewide Investment
Oregon's congressional delegation framed the statewide $18.9 million package as critical for both safety and economic vitality — especially in rural areas where local airports serve as emergency lifelines and economic anchors.
"Communities across Oregon rely on their local airports to support their economies, respond to natural disasters and stay connected," said Senator Wyden.
Madras Municipal Airport serves general aviation traffic in Jefferson County and the broader Central Oregon region. Accurate, real-time weather data from an AWOS system is especially important in the high desert, where wind, visibility, and temperature conditions can change rapidly.
Other Oregon airports in the funding package include Portland International Airport ($13.2 million for runway upgrades), Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport ($4.45 million), and Troutdale Airport ($552,000 for taxiway resealing).