Press Releases

Washington, DC—September 20, 2019….Congressman Steve Womack, U.S. Senator John Boozman, and U.S. Senator Tom Cotton today announced that Russellville Regional Airport will receive $1,575,212 in federal grant funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The investment will be used for infrastructure and safety improvement projects, including a runway overlay, which will improve the runway pavement strength, and upgraded runway lighting.

Congressman Womack said, “The Russellville Regional Airport is a vital transportation center that moves our residents, businesses, and economy. This funding will improve local aviation infrastructure to support traveler experience and facility operations. With the region continually growing, smart investments like this will keep the airport safe and modern.”

Senator Boozman said, “This investment in the Russellville Regional Airport will improve safety and efficiency. These upgrades will support long-term growth and development in the region.”

Senator Cotton said, “Russellville’s airport is an important driver of economic growth and a gateway to the region. This investment will enhance safety for travelers to the area and ensure the airport’s utility for years to come.”

The Russellville Regional Airport has seen passenger traffic rapidly increase, with its economic impact nearly doubling in the last 10 years. With usage of the airport fast-growing, it’s critically important that the runways and airfield light systems are modernized to handle increased capacity, bolster runway strength, improve aircraft guidance, and support the safety of travelers. Additionally, a local contractor will be handling the projects, ensuring that the funding is further invested in the community. 

Keith Frazier, Russellville Regional Airport Director, said, “The importance of this project to rehabilitate our runway making it safer and stronger is paramount. The upgrade of the lighting system to LED lights will provide an energy savings to the city and ultimately the taxpayer. This entire project of over $1.5 million dollars will be at zero tax cost to the taxpayers of Russellville. We appreciate the Congressional support we received for this and other programs.”

The DOT grant will be disbursed through the Federal Aviation Administration. The Arkansas Congressional delegation has continually fought for federal investments that improve vital infrastructure, create jobs, and support residents throughout the Natural State.

Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas’s Third Congressional District since 2011. He serves as the Ranking Member of the House Committee on the Budget and is a member of the House Appropriations defense and transportation, housing and urban development subcommittees.

womack.house.gov

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