State Senators Dawn White (R-Murfreesboro) and Shane Reeves (R-Murfreesboro) announced today that the City of Murfreesboro will receive a $1 million state grant for the Murfreesboro Municipal Airport from the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT).

The grant is available through TDOT's Aeronautics Economic Development Fund. The funds will be used for site preparation, fill material, drainage, conduit and pavement of an apron and taxiway for phase one of the Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) expansion that will ultimately create 11 faculty positions and 17 staff positions.

"Murfreesboro's growth and the success of MTSU's aerospace program make the Murfreesboro airport an invaluable asset to our community," said Senator White. "I am pleased these funds have been approved."

The City of Murfreesboro is adding two full-time and one part-time position in 2020 to maintain safe and efficient operations at the airport due to the growth. MTSU plans to add 89 jobs in the next 10 years based on projected growth of the aviation program.

"This airport is very important to Murfreesboro, and I am glad these funds will be available to help with improvements and expansion," said Senator Reeves. "I appreciate the work and support of local officials for helping secure this grant."

Tennessee's aerospace sector has a rich combination of research assets, capital investment opportunities, advanced manufacturing expertise, accessibility to educational resources, and workforce capacity. The Aeronautics Economic Development fund provides an excellent opportunity for new or expanding aerospace programs.