WASHINGTON — Congresswoman Mazie K. Hirono, D-Hawai‘i, today announced a $6,867,000 U.S. Department of Transportation grant to build a new Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Facility at the Moloka‘i Airport in Kaunakakai.

According to state airport officials, the current facility is aging and stands in violation of a number of federal safety guidelines, including its location. The new Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Facility will be built in a safer, more open area next to the airport’s air traffic control tower.

Once completed, the Moloka‘i Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Facility will feature a two-fire truck garage with room for the storage of fire and rescue equipment. It will also house a bunk room, kitchen, showers and fitness area with the intent of the having the facility staffed 24 hours a day. The building will also be fitted with an emergency, back-up generator.