Gov. Linda Lingle has released $244,500 in construction money for upgrades to Kalaeloa Airport's electrical utility system.

Kalaeloa Airport is a state-operated general aviation facility with three runways, a control tower and support facilities situated on the former Barbers Point Naval Air Station. It was converted into a public use airport in 1999.

"This project will help complete the Kalaeloa Airport's conversion to civilian use," Lingle said in a news release. "In addition to supporting the airport's general aviation needs, the electrical system work will improve its ability to serve as an alternate landing and maintenance site for Honolulu International Airport."

Project funds will cover a wide scope of electrical utility system upgrades that will improve the safety of the airport for its users and its ability to operate in the event of a power outage.

Work will include: replacing the electrical distribution panel that powers the control tower; replacing the automatic transfer switch that activates the emergency generator for the Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Station; replacing lighting and fixtures in the airport's maintenance building; providing shelter for exposed electrical equipment at the control tower building; and installing area lights around the ARFF Station for nighttime operations.

The total project cost is estimated at nearly $2.9 million. Remaining funds include prior state allotments of $110,000 and a $2.5 million grant from the Federal Aviation Administration Military Airport Program.

Construction is scheduled to begin in January and be completed in August.