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

Bredesen Announces $7.7 million in Grants for Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport
Grants awarded through TDOT’s Aeronautics Division

Nashville, TN—Governor Phil Bredesen announced today that federal and state aeronautics grants totaling $7,751,997 have been approved for the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, or Lovell Field.

“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. “Lovell Field is vital to this region’s economy and travel system.  I’m pleased to support its continued growth.”

Funds from these federal and state aeronautics grants will be used for the construction of a new taxiway, security enhancements, and the replacement of the airport’s HVAC system.

“As Chattanooga and surrounding areas continue to grow, it is vital that we keep Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport up to date both physically and in terms of security,” said Senate Transportation Committee member Andy Berke. “I’m pleased to support this grant for Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport.”

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.

House Transportation Committee member Vince Dean and the entire Hamilton County Legislative Delegation also worked to secure these grant funds for Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport.