Governor Bredesen Announces Grant for Nashville International Airport

Nashville, TN—Governor Phil Bredesen announced today that an Aeronautics Grant in the amount of $3.4 million has been awarded to Nashville International Airport in Davidson County to assist with improvements to that facility.

“Nashville International Airport is critical to the continued economic development of this region,” said Governor Bredesen. “Thousands of travelers touch down here daily, and the airport serves as a major hub for businesses and shipping. I’m pleased to support Nashville International Airport’s continued growth.”

The grant funds will be used for the reconstruction of a taxiway.

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 126 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.

The Davidson County delegation helped secure these grant funds for Nashville International Airport.