Governor Bredesen Announces Grant for McGhee Tyson Airport
Grant awarded through TDOT’s Aeronautics Division

Nashville, TN— Governor Phil Bredesen announced today that an Aeronautics Grant of $43,650 has been awarded to McGhee Tyson Airport in Blount County.

“Our airports are a vital piece of Tennessee’s transportation network,” said Governor 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 McGhee Tyson Airport.”

The grant funds will be used for security improvements to the concourse exit plaza. The total estimated cost of the improvements is $48,500.

Tennessee Department of Transportation Commissioner Gerald Nicely explained that the grants are made available through the department’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 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.

“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.”

The TDOT Aeronautics Division is responsible for inspecting and licensing the state’s 126 heliports and 75 public/general aviation airports. General aviation includes any aircrafts 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 Knox County delegation helped secure these grants for McGhee Tyson Airport.