Governor Bredesen Announces Grant for Lovell Field

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 $45,000 to Lovell Field in Chattanooga 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 award this grant to Lovell Field.”

“This grant will be used to assist with the purchase and installation of a new Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning system unit for the airport,” said Representative Tommie Brown. “The old unit had failed and the airport needed this assistance to make the replacement.”

“I’d like to thank the Governor and TDOT for supplying these grant funds to Lovell Field,” added Representative JoAnne Favors. “Our region relies heavily upon this airport for economic and travel concerns.”

“I’m pleased to see that the state is making another contribution that will help our airport continue to thrive,” said Senator Ward Crutchfield.

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.