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Rahall Announces $311K for Mercer County Airport Improvements

04/23/08

U.S. Rep. Nick J. Rahall (D-WV) announced today that the Mercer County Airport Authority has been awarded $311,240 from the U.S. Department of Transportation for improvements to the Mercer County Airport’s terminal building and runway lighting in Bluefield, West Virginia.

“This announcement is welcome news for the residents of Mercer County,” Rahall said. “Airports are vital economic engines for southern West Virginia, which must be kept in top-notch condition. This funding will help make much-needed improvements that will keep the Mercer County Airport running as safely and efficiently as possible.”

The funds will be used to make improvements to the airport’s terminal building, including upgrading the heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning system and replacing windows, as well as the rehabilitation of the aging airfield lighting. The funding will also allow Mercer County Airport Authority officials to update their Airport Master Plan to help meet present safety and capacity needs and to plan for future growth of the airport. 

As a staunch supporter of southern West Virginia’s airports, Congressman Rahall has repeatedly fought to protect and properly fund the Essential Air Service (EAS) Program, which provides federal funding to regional and rural airports to help ensure that rural communities have access to commercial air service.   

“Regional and rural airports have proven their ability to compete on the national stage when given the opportunity,” said Rahall. “With federal investment for these airports once again on the budgetary chopping block, I will continue to fight for every penny to ensure that our region’s airports have the tools they need to meet the growing aviation needs of southern West Virginia.”