Thursday, May 20, 2004

WASHINGTON - U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson, Senator Kit Bond, and Senator Jim Talent today announced a grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation for much-needed runway improvements to the Cape Girardeau Regional Airport.

The $1,794,900 grant is earmarked to rehabilitate the runway and taxiway at the airport.

"Runway improvements are extremely important to keep the Cape Girardeau Regional Airport operating safely and efficiently. In a rural area such as Southeast Missouri, our small airports connect us to the rest of the nation. They are a vital part of our transportation infrastructure, and they must be kept in good condition," Emerson said. "I'm grateful to my colleagues in the Senate for their advocacy for this project."

"The best way to guarantee future economic growth is to make sure that our infrastructure is up to par," said Senator Kit Bond. "These dollars will fund important runway improvements and are an investment in Southeast Missouri's future," said Bond.

"Cape Girardeau Regional Airport is an aviation gateway to Southeast Missouri," said Talent. "It is important we maintain and ensure the safety of this vital transportation infrastructure for Missourians and those who visit the region. I will continue working with Rep. Emerson and Sen. Bond to deliver additional dollars for Southeast Missouri transportation efforts."