Anderson airport awarded grant for airfield lighting

Anderson County has secured a $710,353 Federal Aviation Administration grant for the Anderson Regional Airport. Funds from the FAA’s Airport Improvement Program will be used to install new taxi-way and run-way lighting.

GSA Daily Staff Report
Published July 7, 2010

Total cost of the project is $747,740, with a 2.5% local match coming from the Airport Fund and 2.5% coming from the state.

“Anderson County has so much to offer new industry,” said Anderson County Councilman Tom Allen. “This is evidenced by First Quality’s decision to choose Anderson County over other sites. Although, we succeeded in attracting First Quality, we can’t rest on our laurels.

“If we want to consistently compete for the larger companies – industry bringing the most jobs for our residents – we have to provide adequate facilities and sufficient infrastructure to attract those companies,” he continued. “Improving our airport will go a long way to helping us sell Anderson as the viable hub of industry we are capable of becoming.”

Also included in the project is new airfield signage to designate runways. The existing signage has endured several lightening strikes and is in dire need of repair.

“Anderson Regional Airport is the gateway for industry into our county,” said Airport Manager Steve Vibbard. “Having better lighting and improved taxi-way and runway lighting will send a consistent message to those visiting us that we are a growing, thriving county with much to offer. We need to enhance industries’ first impression so that it becomes a lasting impression.”

The county previously received a grant to construct a concrete ramp that is capable of handling larger jets. That project is expected to begin around July 19.

Additional improvements to the airport include the installation of perimeter fencing.