WASHINGTON - U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced a $14 million Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grant to rehabilitate the main runway at the Tri-Cities Regional Airport in Blountville, Tenn.

"This funding will help improve Tri-Cities Airport's infrastructure and will keep aircraft moving safely and efficiently through Tennessee," Secretary LaHood said. "Making important investments in our aviation system promotes safety and economic growth in communities across the country."

The FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grant will fund repaving of the primary runway. The pavement is more than 25 years old and is deteriorating. This grant also will fund installation of drainage systems and replace major portions of the lighting system. Construction will begin in late October 2012 and will take about one year to complete.

"This grant enhances the operation of the airport which allows continued quality service to its passengers," 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.

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