Explore Big Sky: Federal funding package to improve snow removal at Bozeman airport 

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport will receive $1,266,730 in federal money to improve systems that clear the runway of snow and ice hazards. 

In an email to EBS, airport President and CEO Brian Sprenger confirmed that the money, which was enabled by Sen. Jon Tester, will be used for equipment to improve snow and ice removal. Sprenger wrote this is the second of two grants, and this round of funding will cover three pieces of heavy machinery: two runway brooms and one runway blower.  

“Senator Tester plays a significant role in funding the Airport Improvement Program from which these funds are coming,” Sprenger wrote, responding to a question regarding Tester’s role in securing the grant.  

A press release from Tester’s staff announced the funding on Aug. 13, praising it as a win for Montana’s rural economies as part of his larger efforts to support rural airports during his six-year term. In the release, Tester stated that the funding will help keep the Bozeman airport safe and reliable year-round.  

“As one of Montana’s fastest growing cities, it’s critical that Bozeman’s airport has the infrastructure in place not just to support the influx of tourism, but to ensure folks in the community can run their businesses and stay connected with the rest of the country,” Tester stated. 

The funding will be available to Bozeman’s airport within 45 days.