Governor Bredesen Announces Grants for Ellington Airport

Nashville, TN—Governor Phil Bredesen announced today that federal and state aeronautics grants in the amount of $591,986 have been approved for Ellington Airport in Marshall County.

“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. “Ellington Airport is vital to this region’s economy and travel system.  I’m pleased to support its continued growth.”

State aeronautics grant funds totaling $441,986 will be used for an apron and taxi lane project.  The airport will also receive $150,000 in federal Vision 100 funds, which are federal dollars provided to TDOT’s Aeronautics Division through the Federal Aviation Administration’s Block Grant Program. Through this program airports can apply for funds of up to $150,000 a year.

“These improvements are necessary in order to keep this airport up to date and able to meet the needs of its travelers,” said Representative Eddie Bass. “I’m pleased the state is making this investment in the transportation system of Marshall County.

Senator Bill Ketron added, “These funds are vitally important to the continued success of Ellington 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.