Julie A. Oaks
TDOT, Public Information Officer
 Office: 615.741.2331
Mobile: 615.533.7105
Fax: 615.741.9093

Governor Bredesen Announces Grants for Centerville Municipal Airport
Grants awarded through TDOT’s Aeronautics Division

Nashville, TN—Governor Phil Bredesen announced today that federal and state aeronautics grants in the amount of $371,624 have been approved for the Centerville Municipal Airport in Hickman 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. “The Centerville Municipal Airport is vital to this region’s economy and travel system.  I’m pleased to support its continued growth.”

State aeronautics grant funds totaling $221,624 will be used for the construction of an apron and taxi lane for t-hangars. 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 grant funds will allow the Centerville Municipal Airport to complete this expansion,” said Senate Transportation Committee member Doug Jackson.  “I’m pleased Governor Bredesen and TDOT are making this commitment to help this airport meet the growing needs of our community.”

“It’s important to maintain our regional airports and keep them up to date,” said Representative David Shepard.  “This facility is vital to our county’s economy and I am pleased to see this funding provided for this important project.”

House Transportation Committee member John Tidwell added, “This is a worthwhile investment in the transportation system of Hickman County that will allow this airport to remain competitive in the aviation industry.”

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.