Washington, DC—November 22, 2019….U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton, along with Representatives Steve Womack (AR-03) and Bruce Westerman (AR-04), announced the release of federal funds for upgrades at two Arkansas regional airports. Drake Field in Fayetteville is the recipient of $1.25 million in grant funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) which will be used to improve the terminal building. Pine Bluff Regional Airport is receiving $1,791,180 from DOT to construct a taxiway.

“Local airports are valuable assets for our communities and infrastructure is key to expanding economic opportunities in these areas. These investments will improve safety and efficiency at Drake Field in Fayetteville and Pine Bluff Regional Airport by allowing the two airports to implement upgrades that are important to long-term growth and development in Arkansas,” Boozman said.

“These improvements to Drake Field in Fayetteville and Pine Bluff Regional Airport will increase regional connectivity and spur future economic growth. I’m grateful for Secretary Chao’s investment in Arkansas,” Cotton said.

“Transportation infrastructure is vital to economic growth and a valuable resource for residents and businesses. This investment in Drake Field will enhance safety and modernize the facility to ensure long-term value. I thank Secretary Chao and the Administration for their continued work to support the Third District,” Womack said.

“Maintaining and improving our airports is critical for the safety and convenience of travelers across our country. This investment in Pine Bluff will provide more opportunity for air travel in Arkansas’ Fourth District and further the economic growth we have seen under this administration,” Westerman said.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao noted these grants are part of a larger Trump Administration push to invest in the nation’s air travel system.

“The robust economy is enabling more passengers to travel by air so this administration is investing billions of dollars in America’s airports which will address safer operations, fewer airport delays, and greater ease of travel for air travelers,” Secretary Chao said.

The grants will be disbursed through the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which provides grants for the planning and development of public-use airports that are significant to national air transportation.

The Arkansas Congressional delegation has continually fought for federal investments that improve vital infrastructure, create jobs and support residents throughout the Natural State.

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