Eric Stock
Central Illinois Regional Airport is getting $2.3 million from the federal government to complete a major pavement rehab project.
Airport spokeswoman Fran Strebing said the pavement overhaul started two years ago on several runways, continued last year with several taxiways and is set to be completed with the repairing of the main taxiway and tarmac.
“Much like we’ve seen the Veterans Parkway work starting because it’s needed, we are staying ahead of that,” Strebing said. “We are getting a lot of use of our airfield and this will keep our pavement in great condition.”
The Federal Aviation Administration has awarded the airport $4.6 million over three years for the pavement project. The airport has to provide a 10 percent local match.
The funding was announced Tuesday by U.S. Reps. Rodney Davis and Darin LaHood.
“CIRA is a critical part of growing Bloomington-Normal’s economy and bringing new jobs to the area,” Davis said in a statement. “This grant will ensure necessary upgrades are made to improve service.”
LaHood said the grant will enable the Bloomington-Normal Airport Authority to continue efforts to repave over a mile of one taxiway and 58,000 square yards of tarmac.
“Improvement projects like these helps facilitate safer and more efficient operations not only for the ground crew but for pilots and passengers as well,” LaHood said.
