FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Carl Olson                                                        Christina Mulk

Executive Director                                            The Honorable Richard Durbin

Central Illinois Regional Airport                          United States Senate    

(309) 663-7384                                               (202) 228-5643                      

CIRA Receives Grant Award for $1 ML

Airport Will Acquire New Snow Removal Equipment

 BLOOMINGTON, IL (August 4, 2010) The Central Illinois Regional Airport received word today that a $1 ML grant has been awarded to the airport for the purchase of two pieces of snow removal equipment. Two new runway sweepers will be purchased with these funds. Senator Richard Durbin’s office notified CIRA officials of the grant award.

“We are grateful for Senator Durbin’s ongoing support and advocacy for the Central Illinois Regional Airport . This much needed equipment is part of our continuing effort to replace an aging fleet of snow removal equipment necessary for keeping the runways and taxiways clear during winter operations.” said Paul Harmon, Chairman of the Bloomington-Normal Airport Authority.

The airport is served by three commercial airlines with approximately forty commercial takeoffs and landings daily.  Additionally, general aviation and corporate fleets use the airport regularly. Updated and more efficient equipment enhances the capability and safety of the airport during winter weather conditions, which benefits all users of the airport.  

The grant has been awarded as part of the FAA’s Airport Improvement Program.  

“Today’s funding will not only help replace aging snow removal equipment, but it will also contribute to the long term ability of the Central Illinois Regional Airport – a critical transportation link for Bloomington-Normal – to serve travelers safely, securely, and efficiently,” said U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL).  

Central Illinois Regional Airport at Bloomington-Normal carried the most passengers in and out of Central Illinois in 2009 and has seen a 10.4% increase in passenger traffic through June 2010.. With hundreds of destinations available on the world’s premier airlines, free parking and the easiest access in the region, CIRA remains a favorite for Central Illinois travelers.  For more info rmation please visit www.cira.com.  Find the airport on facebook under Central Illinois Regional Airport . ##