Made in America — that's what Monroe County is requiring for the next phase of construction in the $54 million airport revitalization project.
The bid process for work on the future 75,000-square-foot airport entrance canopy has begun. The company selected must use steel from domestic manufacturers. The canopy will require some 420 tons of steel.
The county says the new canopy will provide protective covering for airline passengers using ground transportation, improve terminal accessibility, security and reduce energy costs.
"It is really going to guarantee that this project remains on time because by buying American, we are not going to have to ship products from overseas. We are not going to have to pay additional shipping costs. We are going to get our steel from right here in the good ol' United States of America," Monroe County Executive Cheryl Dinolfo (R) said.
The county is accepting canopy bids until August 10.
Work on the new canopy is expected to begin mid-September.