The governor of Kentucky, Matt Bevin, has announced that the state will spend US$20m on upgrading selected airports over the next two years. Pavement improvement projects on aged runways, taxiways and aprons are planned for 34 general aviation facilities, with 10 scheduled for 2016, ranging from small repairs to a complete reconstruction. The decision is the result of a study conducted in 2011 and updated in 2014 by Applied Pavement Technology, working closely with the Kentucky Aviation Association (KAA).
Governor Bevin said, “Every year, hundreds of individuals and companies consider bringing their business to Kentucky. Many of them travel here on corporate jets and land at one of our non-commercial airports. First impressions about Kentucky’s business communities are made starting from the moment the aircraft touches down. For this reason, investing in general aviation infrastructure is not merely cosmetic – it’s vital to strengthening the health of Kentucky’s economy.”
President of the KAA, retired US Marines major general Jerry D Humble, said, “We are very impressed and thankful for Governor Bevin’s commitment to enhancing and sustaining economic growth in the Commonwealth. He is aware that Kentucky’s airports are in need of major infrastructure maintenance and improvements – many of these airports have been in need of repair and upgrades for a long time.”
