Illinois FIRST to Fund Upgrades at Two Airports in Southern Illinois

DUQUOIN -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the release of $314,676 in Illinois FIRST funds for upgrades at two airports in Southern Illinois.

Southern Illinois Airport in Carbondale will receive $228,000 in Illinois FIRST funds to construct a new public parking lot at the growing airport.

"Due to the increased presence of Southern Illinois University at the airport, there is a need for additional parking," Ryan said. "Illinois FIRST is designed to help communities make the necessary infrastructure upgrades that they simply could not afford to do on their own, and this is another great example."

The work is expected to start in September pending receipt of acceptable bids and the subsequent award of the project. Total cost of the project is $340,000 with the state funds being matched with $68,000 in local funds.

The Governor also announced the release of $26,676 in Illinois FIRST funds for projects at Marion Williamson County Airport. The money will be used for the clearing of trees from a strip mine north of the airport for safety purposes, drainage improvements in the hangar area, and an update to the 20-year old airport layout plan.

Total costs of the projects at the Marion Williamson County Airport are $660,000 with the local agency providing $26,676, and the federal government $606,648.