The Williamsport Municipal Airport Authority at its monthly meeting approved a $176,425 grant to help pay the salary costs for air traffic control tower employees for this year.

The funding amount from Lycoming County is the same as in 2025.

“That is our local share,” Authority Chair Frank Pellegrino said.

The airport also receives federal funding to help offset the salary costs.

In other matters, the Authority discussed a possible land-use agreement with Glenn O. Hawbaker, Inc.

The project would involve removal of topsoil from a 19.2-acre parcel of airport property being considered for future development, according to officials.

“This is a long-term project,” Pellegrino said. “This is outside our five-year plan.”

Possible development, he said, could include additional buildings including a hangar.

Solicitor Scott Williams raised concerns about topsoil not being replaced at the site.

The Authority has applied for a permit from the state Department of Environmental Protection to do the work.

Airport Executive Director Eric McKitish reported a 90% completion rate for commercial airline departures and arrivals during February.

Of the 48 scheduled arrivals and departures, 43 were completed during the month.

The next monthly meeting of the Authority will be at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 9 at the airport terminal building.