Funds Earmarked for Taxiway, Terminal, And Runway Safety Area
Study
The Tri-Cities Regional Airport (TRI) in Sullivan County, TN has
been awarded a $3 million Aeronautics Grant by the Tennessee
Department of Transportation, Governor Phil Bredesen announced
Monday.
"Our airports are a vital piece of Tennessee's transportation
network," said Bredesen (above). "I can't stress enough the
importance of not only maintaining these facilities, but also
making sure they can continue to serve the changing needs of their
communities. I'm pleased to support continued growth at Tri-Cities
Regional Airport."
According to the Nashville Herald-Courier, funds will be used to
acquire necessary property for a new taxiway, ramp construction, a
new terminal, airfield markings, aircraft boarding equipment, wind
cone pavement analysis and a runway safety area study that will
compare current RSAs with standards set forth by the Federal
Aviation Administration.
"Tri-Cities Airport is growing, and it's important to continue
to improve and maintain the airport," said Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey.
"These projects will help improve safety and operations at the
airport."
Grant applications are reviewed by the Tennessee Aeronautics
Commission (TAC), a five member board responsible for regulating
changes in the state airport system.
"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."
Other politicians agree on the importance of the $3,147,800
project.
"I am pleased to see Governor Bredesen and TDOT providing these
funds for improvements at Tri-Cities Regional Airport," said state
representative Nathan Vaughn. "This airport is vital to both
businesses and travelers in this region and it is critical that we
keep it up to date."
State representative Jason Mumpower agreed. "These improvements
will make this top-notch facility even better. I'm pleased to see
this investment in Tri-Cities Regional Airport."
"This division administers federal and state funding to assist
in the location, design, construction and maintenance of
Tennessee's diverse public aviation system," he said. "We are
pleased to be able to provide millions of dollars each year for the
betterment of our airports through our grant programs," said TDOT
Commissioner Gerald Nicely.