Today U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers (KY-05) announced the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded funds to improve the Wendell H. Ford Airport.  The $208,948 Federal Aviation Administration grant will provide funding for the rehabilitation of a pavement depression stretching across a runway and taxiway.

“It is vital to keep our rural airports, like the Wendell H. Ford Airport in good operating condition to provide safe air travel for our communities,” said Rogers. “I am pleased to see that the Department of Transportation has invested in the Kentucky River region by ensuring the pavement failures at the airport are repaired.”

These grant funds will correct pavement failures resulting in sizeable depressions in runway 14/32 and the taxiway. The Wendell H. Ford Airport is approximately 8 miles north of Hazard, Kentucky.  More than 30 aircraft are based on its field, including single- and multi-engine airplanes, as well as a full-time Medi Vac helicopter. The airport averages 168 aircraft operations per week, 45% transient general aviation, 39% local general aviation, 13% air tax and 2% military.

Grants are awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a part of the U.S. Department of Transportation.  The FAA is responsible for the safety of civil aviation.  The Airport Improvement Program (AIP) provides grants for the planning and development of public-use airports, including improvements related to enhancing airport safety, capacity, security, and environmental concerns. 

Rogers has served Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District since 1981. With a focus on economic development, job creation, fighting illegal drugs and preserving Appalachia’s natural treasures, he has a reputation for listening to his constituents and fighting for the region he represents.  For more information visit www.halrogers.house.gov.