Governor Bredesen Announces Grant for Memphis International Airport

Nashville, TN—Governor Phil Bredesen announced today that an Aeronautics Grant in the amount of $38,647,548 has been approved for Memphis International Airport.

“Our airports are a vital piece of Tennessee’s transportation network,” said Bredesen. “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 Memphis International Airport.”

Funds from this aeronautics grant will be used for airfield improvements, a de-ice pad and the construction of a terminal access road.

“These are significant improvements that would not be possible without these grant funds,” said Senator Reginald Tate. “I thank Governor Bredesen and TDOT for making this important investment.”

Representative Joe Towns Jr. added, “This grant will make a significant difference in the airport’s ability to stay competitive and to attract new customers.”

These 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 Belinda Anderson 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.”

he TDOT Aeronautics Division has the responsibility of inspecting and licensing the state’s 126 heliports and 75 public/general aviation airports. General aviation includes all aircraft not flown by commercial airlines or the military. The Aeronautics Division also provides aircraft and related services for state government executives, staffing for the Tennessee Aeronautics Commission, and numerous educational support programs. The division’s offices include Administration, Finance & Grant Management, Engineering & Program Development, Flight Services, and Planning & Programming.

The Shelby County Legislative Delegation worked to secure these funds for Memphis International Airport.