Wednesday, June 2, 2004

WASHINGTON - U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) and U.S. Senators Kit Bond and Jim Talent today announced a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development to purchase and install fueling equipment for the City of Kennett's airport.

"Our regional airports link Southern Missouri to larger communities with the medical services we need in emergencies, they bring in company representatives scouting new manufacturing locations, and they create economic opportunities. It is essential that our air service be reliable and up-to-date," Emerson said. "Rural Development is working with communities throughout rural Missouri to identify these opportunities and fund them. We are very fortunate for their involvement in our air transportation infrastructure."

"Rural Development dollars make a number of critical projects in Missouri's smaller communities possible," said Senator Kit Bond. "Our rural communities depend on safe and efficient transportation infrastructure to keep them connected to urban Missouri. Today's announcement is a real boost to Southern Missouri where Kennett's airport is a vital link to the rest of the state."

"I commend USDA Rural Development for answering the call and supporting improvements at Kennett Memorial Airport," said Talent, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee. "This funding will enhance transportation in the region and encourage additional business and individual use of the facility. I will continue to working together with Sen. Bond and Rep. Emerson to deliver additional infrastructure funding to Southeast Missouri."

Rural Development funds will be used to purchase and install fueling equipment for the City of Kennett's airport. The upgrade will include a 12,000 gallon tank for jet fuel, a high speed volume pump, and accessories.