Date: Monday, February 24, 2020

Dubuque Area Chamber Leaders and Dubuque Regional Airport officials received word from Senator Grassley’s office that they have been awarded $775,000 from the Department of Transportation’s Small Community Air Service Development Program Grant (SCASDP).  This grant program is designed to help small communities address air service issues.   SCASDP can involve, among others, revenue guarantees, financial assistance for marketing programs, start-up costs and studies.

Public-Private Partnerships were crucial in obtaining the grant award.  A consortium led by the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce and the Dubuque Regional Airport with partners from Greater Dubuque Development Corporation, Travel Dubuque, Dubuque County Board of Supervisors, City of Dubuque, and the Iowa Department of Transportation worked together for a total grant application of $1,310,195.  The strategic plan for the grant is to provide nonstop service to Denver International Airport (DEN) and improve connections to the West and Northwest regions where current access is severely limited. 

“Business and other air travelers in the Dubuque area have long wanted access to more flight services to the west. This grant will help the airport attract new air service to Denver.  I know the airport will work hard to make the best use of these funds to offer more choice and convenience to travelers in the region. This is good news for the local economy as well.”  Senator Chuck Grassley.

Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Molly Grover stated “We are thrilled to receive this grant award.   Enhanced air service has been and continues to be amongst the Chamber’s top priorities.   Our members have been emphatically clear in the need for additional air service for the growth and success of the business community.   In today’s economy it’s simply a business imperative.”

Mayor Roy Buol said “When we cut the ribbon on the new airline terminal in June of 2016, I said then that I was very hopeful that we would see expansion of air service.  We have a beautiful airport facility, growing economy, and more people utilizing the Dubuque Airport,” said Mayor Roy D. Buol.  “Now, with this grant announcement, I am very hopeful we will see more success soon."

“Travel Dubuque was thrilled to learn this grant opportunity had been secured. It is our mission to provide and support opportunities that develop the traveler’s experience in the Dubuque area. This funding provides an avenue to continue the conversation around expanding air service options at the Dubuque Regional Airport.” – Keith Rahe President & CEO Travel Dubuque

Doug Brotherton, Dubuque Regional Airport Commission Chair states “Without our partners’ support, this grant wouldn’t have happened.  Now more than ever it is critical for the Tri-state area to fly local and Fly DBQ!”

Department of Transportation press release: https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/us-transportation-secretary-elaine-l-chao-announces-122-million-grants-help-small

Contact Information:
Molly Grover – DBQ Chamber of Commerce President & CEO (563) 557-9200
Todd Dalsing - Dubuque Regional Airport Director (563) 589-4233