WASHINGTON - U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced a $31.8 million Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grant for runway safety, pavement and security improvements at Memphis International Airport.

"This funding will help enhance safety and security at Memphis International Airport," Secretary LaHood said. "Making important investments in our aviation system promotes safety and economic growth in communities across the country."

The FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grant will pay for installation of Engineered Material Arresting Systems (EMAS) at both ends of Runway 18R/36L. EMAS uses crushable concrete placed at the end of a runway to stop an aircraft that overruns the runway. The system improves safety when land is not available to create standard-sized runway safety areas. The grant also will fund the replacement of the old aircraft apron pavement outside the passenger terminal, as well as for various security enhancements.

The runway safety area work is expected to begin in March 2013 and take four months to complete.

"This grant enhances airport safety, andits users will benefit from these improvements for years to come,"said Acting FAA Administrator Michael Huerta.

AIP provides $3.35 billion in annual funding for airport improvement projects that are vital to maintaining the safety, capacity and environmental stewardship of our nation's airports. More than 3,300 airports are eligible for AIP grants benefiting commercial passengers, cargo operations and general aviation activities throughout the nation.

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