Governor Bredesen Announces Grants for Tri-Cities Regional Airport

Nashville, TN—Governor Phil Bredesen announced today that $776,677 in federal and state aeronautics grant funds have been approved for Tri-Cities Regional 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. “Tri-Cities Regional Airport is vital to this region’s economy and travel system.  I’m pleased to support its continued growth.”

Funds from these aeronautics grants will be used for perimeter security fence rehabilitation, land acquisition for taxi-way extension, and runway pavement friction testing.

“Regional airports are very important to Tennessee’s communities,” said House Transportation Committee member Nathan Vaughn.  “Businesses and residents rely on the goods and services they provide.  I appreciate this investment in the Tri-Cities Regional Airport.”

Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey added, “I am very pleased that Governor Bredesen and TDOT recognize the importance of the Tri-Cities Regional Airport to the economy of the area, and I am thankful that they are making this important investment.”

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.

Representatives Jason Mumpower and Jon Lundberg also represent the Tri-Cities in the General Assembly.