Nothing but blue skies

Prime Minister Stephen Harper announces airport improvements

MP Jim Abbott, Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Cranbrook Mayor Scott Manjak discuss infrastructure upgrades to the Canadian Rockies International Airport. — Tanya Laing Gahr photo

The reason for Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s August visit to Cranbrook was twofold: to pay tribute to the longstanding Conservative MP of Kootenay-Columbia, Jim Abbott, and his contributions to the riding during his years of service, and to announce funding for infrastructure upgrades to the Canadian Rockies International Airport.

“The essential upgrades announced today will allow the Cranbrook airport to sustain excellent and safe service to passengers and businesses throughout the community,” said Harper.

The Canadian government is providing more than $5.6 million in support of essential safety and infrastructure upgrades to the Canadian Rockies International Airport, including the replacement of a wet/dry chemical spreader and a decelerometer (winter friction testing device) as well as the rehabilitation of runways and taxiways. Harper cited the airport’s relatively high altitude as being a major consideration in the decision to provide funding for the improvements.

Harper congratulated Abbott on his 17 years of service in the House of Commons, commenting on their long relationship.

“Back in 2001, (Abbott) was one of the first handful of people to come up with the idea that I should run for the leadership of the party,” said Harper. “So we either give you credit, Jim, or blame it on you, depending on the circumstances.”

Harper gave credit to local governments for promoting the region as a premier tourist destination and to Cranbrook for creating “mountains of opportunity.”