The following information was released by the office of Tennessee Rep. Steve Cohen:
Memphis International Airport and U.S. Representative Steve Cohen (Tennessee's 9th Congressional District) today announced the awarding by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of a $31.8 million grant to be used for runway safety, pavement and security projects at Memphis International Airport.
The FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grant will help pay for installation of Engineered Material Arresting Systems (EMAS) at the south end of Runway 18R/36L. EMAS uses crushable concrete placed at the end of a runway to stop an aircraft that overruns the runway. The system improves safety when land is not available to create standard-sized runway safety areas. The runway safety area work is expected to begin in March 2013 and take four months to complete.
In addition, the grant will be used toward a five-phase, $90-million project to reconstruct the concrete, aircraft-parking ramp that surrounds passenger terminal concourses A, B and C. The full project includes the demolition and removal of approximately 350,000 square yards of concrete and base material that is 40-50 years old and must be replaced, having served its useful life.
And, a portion of the grant is earmarked for Access Control System and CCTV Replacement Construction. The Access Control System provides secure entrance/exit to the restricted areas of the Airfield and Terminal Building and the Closed Circuit TV cameras monitor these access points.
"We are pleased with the continued investment in Memphis International Airport by the FAA, and feel it reflects the continued confidence in our role as a vital part of the nation's aviation system and one of the world's most respected airports," said Larry Cox, president and CEO of the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority.
"This $31.8 million grant is a great accomplishment for the Memphis International Airport," said Congressman Cohen. "Our airport is our city's economic engine and is integral in maintaining the flow of commerce across our nation and world. These new federal funds will help ensure that the Airport can continue its long history as our nation's premier cargo airport. I'd like to congratulate the Airport on being awarded these funds and thank the U.S. Department of Transportation for their continued support of the Memphis transportation system."
"This funding will help enhance safety and security at Memphis International Airport," U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said. "Making important investments in our aviation system promotes safety and economic growth in communities across the country."
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.
Copyright 2012 States News Service
