WASHINGTON, D. C. – Airport improvement projects at Jackson, Tunica and Gulfport have been approved to receive more than $11.8 million in federal funding, according to U.S. Senators Thad Cochran and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.).

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved three grants to support infrastructure development and operational projects that will improve efficiency and safety at local airport facilities.

“Each of the projects supported by this funding is designed to improve air service, which is important for economic development and tourism,” Cochran said.  “I am particularly pleased that funding is being provided to support the growth of air service in the Tunica area.”

“This announcement will provide a great benefit to our airports so we can handle increases in traffic in the future as well as improve the safety of those traveling to and from Mississippi,” added Wicker.   

The FAA awarded $10.4 million for rehabilitation of a runway and apron at the Jackson-Evers International Airport, which will extend the useful life of the pavement.

Tunica County and Tunica County Airport Commission will receive $781,524 to support Phase 1A construction of a terminal building at the Tunica Municipal Airport.  The terminal facility is needed to support scheduled passenger service, as well as existing charter service and general aviation needs at the airport.

Finally, the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport will use $625,000 to fund airport imagery and data collection for the FAA Airports Geographic Information System, which is used to meet evolving airspace requirements and to support the agency’s Next Generation national airspace system.

The grants derive from funding Congress approved in the FY2010 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

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