U.S. Rep. Nick J. Rahall (D-WV) through a collaborative effort with the Nick J. Rahall Appalachian Transportation Institute (RTI) has secured $20,000 in funding for the furnishing of a training classroom at the Tri-State Airport in Wayne County.

"This funding will go a long way in ensuring that the Tri-State Airport is a safe, secure place for travelers in and out of our state," Rahall said. "It's an important effort that I am happy to be involved with on an on-going basis."

Airport rescue and firefighting crews and responding firefighting agencies will use the site to train on answering to any emergencies at the airport. Airport personnel will also use the facility to provide first-responders with continuing education workshops on topics related to the safety, security, administration, operation and environmental issues at the airport.

"Having a furnished state-of-the-art facility onsite means training can be accomplished without travel, providing savings in travel and labor-related expenses, Rahall said. "The Tri-State Airport is an integral part of the area's economy. It just makes sense that we do all we can to make it as independent and efficient as possible."

Larry Salyers, executive director of the Tri-State Airport, thanked Rahall for his support.

"We cannot thank Congressman Rahall enough for his continued support of Tri-State Airport," Saylers said. "He helped us land the dollars needed to build this facility, he headlined our dedication ceremonies, and now he's putting the finishing touches on our training center through his work with RTI. We are grateful to Mr. Rahall and his colleagues at RTI for their belief in our mission and their willingness to support us as we continue to work to better meet the needs of Appalachia."

Robert H. Plymale, director of RTI, said the training center fits perfectly into RTI's mission.

"Congressman Rahall's vision of ‘building jobs through transportation' is working here at Tri-State Airport," Plymale said. "RTI is pleased to support the new training facility, as it fits nicely into one of RTI's goals of furthering the training of transportation professionals. In partnering with Tri-State Airport, Congressman Rahall and RTI will have a hand in making the airport safer and more secure by ensuring trained personnel are on the ground in case of an emergency."

Rahall said he sees this contribution as the beginning of a long, rewarding relationship between RTI and the Tri-State Airport.