Governor Bredesen Announces Grant for General DeWitt Spain Airport

Nashville, TN—Governor Phil Bredesen announced today that an aeronautics grant in the amount of $22,050 has been approved for General DeWitt Spain Airport.

“As our communities grow and thrive, it is increasingly important that our airports stay competitive and efficient at meeting the needs of travelers,” said Bredesen. “General DeWitt Spain Airport is vital to this region’s economy and travel system.  I’m pleased to support its continued growth.”

Funds from this aeronautics grant will be used for engineering and design for the terminal building expansion.

Senator Ophelia Ford said, “This is an important investment in the future of this airport. It is vital that we plan for the future and help keep our air facilities up to date.  I’m pleased to see these funds dedicated to growth of the General DeWitt Spain Airport.”

“These funds will help with the growth of this important transportation link,” said Representative Barbara Cooper.  “I’m pleased to see Governor Bredesen and TDOT making this important investment in the General DeWitt Spain Airport.”

The grants are made available through the Tennessee Department of Transportation’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 TDOT Commissioner Gerald Nicely. “We are pleased to be able to provide millions of dollars each year for the betterment of our airports through our grant programs.”

Except for routine expenditures, 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.

TAC Chair Larry Mullins explained, “Our board examines the applications carefully to ensure that the proper state and local matching funds are in place and that the grants will be put to good use.”

The TDOT Aeronautics Division has the responsibility of inspecting and licensing the state’s 126 heliports and 75 public/general aviation airports.  The Division also provides aircraft and related services for state government and staffing for the Tennessee Aeronautics Commission.

The Shelby County legislative delegation helped secure these funds for the General DeWitt Spain Airport.