Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen announced today that Aeronautics Grants in the amount of $5,196,548 have been approved for Lovell Field in Chattanooga.

“Our airports are a vital piece of Tennessee’s transportation network,” said Bredesen. “I can’t stress enough the importance of not only maintaining these facilities, but also making sure they can continue to serve the changing needs of their communities."

Funds from these aeronautics grants will be used for several improvements, including runway extension and overall infrastructure development.

Tennessee Department of Transportation Commissioner Gerald Nicely says the grants are made available through the department’s Aeronautics Division.

The Collegedale Municipal Airport received a similar grant totaling $47,335.