State Rep. Karl Bohnak today announced he secured $3 million for the Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport (MQT). The funding comes through the state budget, which was approved by the Legislature last week. MQT annually serves more than 82,000 passengers and more than 5 million pounds of cargo.

“This one-time $3 million grant will give our Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport a massive boost, both in the short-term for infrastructure improvements and for long-term planning and growth,” said Bohnak, R-Deerton. “Our airport is a pillar of both tourism and business for the entire Upper Peninsula. I was honored to represent their need for state support throughout the budget negotiation process, as I was able to speak with both Republicans and Democrats about the importance of supporting Marquette Sawyer with additional resources.”

The $3 million in state funding will support air service and invest in infrastructure at MQT, which is the only U.P. airport that does not receive federal funding.

“We at Marquette County are very pleased with the announcement of secured funding for the Airport,” said Duane DuRay, Marquette County Administrator. “We cannot thank Representative Bohnak enough for his continued and future support of both Marquette County and the Airport. This funding will address critical needs at Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport and help us provide a more efficient, reliable, and competitive airport for Marquette County and the surrounding region.”

The state dollars will support four strategic priorities at MQT:

• Sustaining critical air service by ensuring service continuity and reliability for the entire Upper Peninsula region.
• Expanding air service options by supporting route development studies, airline engagement, and early-stage incentives to attract additional routes that match strong visitor demand, including potential service to destinations like Denver, Orlando, and Charlotte.
• Supporting long-term strategic planning by ensuring the airport evolves alongside the needs of residents, employers, and public institutions.
• Investing in infrastructure to enable growth through strategic upgrades to the terminal, airside facilities, and passenger services.

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