Governor Quinn Announces $133,000 for Metropolis Airport Improvements

METROPOLIS – Governor Pat Quinn today announced a $133,000 capital investment for a construction project at the Metropolis Municipal Airport. The project is part of Governor Quinn’s agenda to create jobs and drive Illinois’ economy forward. The contract was awarded following a competitive bidding process and addresses a critical infrastructure need while creating construction jobs.

“Investments in airports like this one in Metropolis make them safer and more efficient,” Governor Quinn said. “The project will also employ a number of construction workers, which will drive local economy forward.”

The project will involve the first phase of the construction of a partial parallel taxiway, plus associated grading and drainage work. The work will be done by Sierra Bravo Contractors, LLC of Sesser, the lowest of four bidders with a quote of $133,925. Construction should begin in May. The Illinois Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics will manage the project, which includes federal, state and local funding.

“These infrastructure upgrades will help our local economy by providing much-needed jobs for construction workers and further improve the vital services Metropolis Municipal Airport has to offer,” State Representative Brandon Phelps (D-Harrisburg) said. “Many do not realize the regional impact this airport provides to us through seasonal agricultural spraying, and serving as one of the training grounds for future aviators through SIU’s School of Aviation.”

The state funds for the project come from Governor Quinn’s $31 billion Illinois Jobs Now! program, which supports more than 439,000 jobs over six years. It is the largest capital construction program in Illinois history, and is one of the largest capital construction programs in the nation.