WASHINGTON - U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced a $3 million Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grant for runway improvements at Athens/Ben Epps Airport in Athens, Ga. The grant is part of the Georgia State Block Grant Program.

"This funding will help improve Athens/Ben Epps Airport's infrastructure and will keep aircraft moving safely and efficiently through Georgia," 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 complete the funding for an extension of Runway 09/27 to an overall length of 6,122 feet. Lengthening the runway will enable the airport to better accommodate the current aircraft that use it. Construction is expected to begin in January 2013 and take eight months.

"Lengthening Runway 09/27 will reduce the chance of runway incursions and offer greater flexibility to accommodate current aircraft," 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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