Town of Oliver applies for grant to upgrade main runway at Oliver Municipal Airport

Oliver council voted unanimously to reapply to the B.C. Air Access Program seeking more than $1.5 million toward a proposed $1.814-million reconstruction of the airport's main runway; the town would contribute $272,000 if the grant is awarded.

The Town of Oliver has decided to reapply for provincial grant funding to rebuild the main runway at Oliver Municipal Airport after an unsuccessful bid in 2025. Council voted unanimously to support a second application to the B.C. Air Access Program for 2026. The funding request would be filed with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and aims to cover the bulk of a runway reconstruction project. Town staff say the application was strengthened this year with additional letters of support from local organizations. Key points: - The town is seeking more than $1.5 million from the B.C. Air Access Program toward a total estimated project cost of $1.814 million. - The grant being sought would cover about 85% of costs; the town's share would be $272,000 if the funding is approved. - Oliver council voted unanimously to apply; the application deadline was Jan. 16 and the file was to be submitted to the provincial ministry. - Oliver's 2025 application was not selected; provincial staff suggested the town add more letters of support to strengthen the case. - Six organizations provided letters of support for the 2026 application, including the South Okanagan Flying Club, Osoyoos Indian Band, Oliver Tourism Association, Oliver and Osoyoos Search and Rescue, Oliver District Wine Village and Area 27 Motorsports Park. - Officials noted factors such as limited airport revenue streams and the airport's role in emergency response are among considerations provincial officials will weigh. Summary: If the grant is approved, the main runway at Oliver Municipal Airport would be reconstructed and the town would contribute $272,000 toward the project. The application has been filed with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and provincial officials will review funding requests; a final decision was not stated.