The Federal Aviation Administration has awarded Central Illinois Regional Airport a $12.5 million grant for runway improvements.
The funding will support phase one of CIRA’s Runway 11/29 Rehabilitation Project. Work will include pavement rehabilitation, new runway lighting, signage, and safety enhancements on the airport’s shorter runway.
The project goal is to attract new investment, create jobs for local workers and make a safer, more vibrant airport, said Central Illinois Regional Airport Authority chair Alan Sender.
CIRA Executive Director Carl Olson said the first phase of construction is scheduled to take place during the spring, summer and fall of 2026.
A second phase is planned for 2027.
