WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Thad Cochran, R-Miss., along with Congressman Gregg Harper, R-Miss., announced that the Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport will receive a $3.38 million airport improvement grant from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The award, which is made up of $1.44 million in formula funding and $1.93 million in discretionary appropriations, will facilitate continued runway rehabilitation and outdated lighting replacement.

"The Jackson Airport stands to benefit from upgrades to its runway and lighting," Wicker said. "These infrastructure improvements are critical to upholding important aviation standards, giving the capital area access to the safest air service possible."

“The efficient and safe operation of an airport requires consistent facility maintenance. I’m pleased the Federal Aviation Administration has committed additional resources to enhance safe aviation operations in Jackson,” Cochran said.

Harper commented, “The Jackson-Evers International Airport is an important economic and transportation resource for Central Mississippi and throughout the state. I am pleased to see these funds invested in improving the airport’s existing infrastructure and connecting the people of Jackson to cities across the United States and abroad.”

This grant will supplement a $13.8 million grant awarded in July for runway rehabilitation and wildlife hazard assessments at the Jackson airport.