Governor Bredesen Announces Grant for Nashville International Airport

Grant awarded through TDOT’s Aeronautics Division

Nashville, TN—Governor Phil Bredesen announced today that an Aeronautics Grant in the amount of $45,000 has been approved for Nashville International 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. “Nashville International 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 a professional services contract.

“It is important that Nashville continues to improve and upgrade its airport,” said Representative Mike Turner.  “I am pleased to have helped obtain these funds for Nashville International Airport.”

Senator Thelma Harper added, “Nashville International Airport is changing for the better each day.  I’m pleased to see the Governor and TDOT dedicate these funds to the continued growth and success of the 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 Davidson County legislative delegation also worked to secure these grant funds for Nashville International Airport.