Governor Bredesen Announces Grant for McGhee Tyson Airport

Grant awarded through TDOT’s Aeronautics DivisionNashville, TN—Governor Phil Bredesen announced today that the state will provide an Aeronautics Grant in the amount of $95,000 to McGhee Tyson Airport in Blount County to assist with improvements to that facility.

“McGhee Tyson Airport is a key part of our state’s transportation system, serving the commercial airline industry, air cargo, military aviation and general aviation,” said Bredesen. “It is vital that we keep this airport operating competitively to maintain and I’m pleased to award this grant to McGhee Tyson Airport.”

“I’m pleased the state has chosen to make this investment at this time. It will improve communications and response time in an emergency situation and there is nothing more important than that,” stated Representative Doug Overbey.

“This grant will be used to install sidewalks and to improve general aviation ramp lighting,” explained Representative Joe McCord.

Tennessee Department of Transportation Commissioner Gerald Nicely explained that the grants are made available through the department’s Aeronautics Division. “This Division administers federal and state funding to assist in the location, design, construction and maintenance of Tennessee’s diverse public aviation system,” reported Nicely. “We are pleased to be able to provide millions of dollars each year for the betterment of our airports through our grant programs.”

Grant applications are reviewed by the Tennessee Aeronautics Commission (TAC), which is a five member board charged with policy planning and with regulating changes in the state airport system plan.

“We take our duties very seriously,” reported TAC Chairman Fred Dettwiller. “These grants can have a profound impact on the future of a general aviation airport and its economic contributions.”

The TDOT Aeronautics Division also has the responsibility of inspecting and licensing the state’s 118 heliports and 83 public/general aviation airports. General aviation includes all aircraft not flown by commercial airlines or the military. The Aeronautics Division also provides aircraft and related services for state government executives, staffing for the Tennessee Aeronautics Commission, and numerous educational support programs. The division’s offices include Administration, Finance & Grant Management, Engineering & Program Development, Flight Services, and Planning & Programming.

Senator Raymond Finney also represents Blount County in the Tennessee General Assembly.