Governor Bredesen Announces Grant for Fayette County Airport

Sunday, August 20, 2006 | 07:00pm

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 $55,000 to Fayette County Airport to assist with improvements to that facility.

“Our general aviation airports serve as important hubs for businesses operating in the state, for shipping, and as reliever airports for larger flight centers,” said Bredesen. “They are a key component to our transportation system and I’m pleased to present this grant to the Fayette County Airport.”

“The money from this grant will be used to install new security fencing and gates around the hangar,” said Lieutenant Governor John Wilder. “These funds will serve an important purpose.”

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.

“These grants can have a significant impact on the future of a general aviation airport and its economic contributions to our state,” said TAC Chairman Lonnie Strunk. “Our board examines the applications carefully to ensure that the funds will be put to good use.”

The TDOT Aeronautics Division also has the responsibility of inspecting and licensing the state’s 118 heliports and 75 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.

Representative Dolores Gresham is also a member of the Tennessee General Assembly representing Fayette County.

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