U.S. Transportation Secretary LaHood announces $3.4 million in grants for Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced a total of $3.4 million in Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grants for the construction of a taxiway and installation of perimeter fencing at Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport in Springfield.

“This grant will help improve the airport’s infrastructure and will keep aircraft moving safely and efficiently,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said. “Investments such as this not only promote safety, but also economic growth.”

The FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants will help pay for the construction of Taxiway Y, which will include a re-engineered intersection that will enhance safety by correcting a non-standard taxiway alignment and disconnecting a service road from the runway. The new perimeter fencing will be 10 feet tall and will help prevent wildlife from crossing the airfield.

“These grants are an important part of the FAA’s mission to maintain the world’s safest and most efficient aviation system,” said Acting FAA Administrator Michael Huerta.

AIP provides $3.35 billion in annual funding for airport improvement projects that are vital to maintaining the safety, capacity, and environmental stewardship of our nation’s airports. More than 3,300 airports are eligible for AIP grants benefiting commercial passengers, cargo operations, and general aviation activities throughout the nation.