Reconstruct runway lighting

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) awarded a Project Grant totaling $1,289,933.68 to the Decatur Park District (operating as Decatur Airport Dept) on September 7, 2025, under the Airport Improvement Program (CFDA 20.106). This grant funds Phase 2 of a runway lighting reconstruction project at Decatur Airport in Long Creek, Illinois, which involves reconstructing 3,583 linear feet of lighting infrastructure on Runway 12/30. The existing lighting system had reached the end of its useful life and requires complete reconstruction to maintain safe airport operations and compliance with Federal Aviation Administration standards.

The project is scheduled for completion by September 6, 2029, allowing adequate time for design, procurement, and construction activities. This infrastructure investment supports the FAA's strategic objectives of safety and operational excellence while contributing to the modernization and maintenance of the regional airport system serving Decatur, Illinois. The grant represents one component of the Decatur Park District's broader capital improvement program, which has secured approximately $7.4 million in total FAA Airport Improvement Program funding between 2022 and 2025 for various airport infrastructure enhancements including runway rehabilitation, apron reconstruction, and airfield guidance systems.

Activities and expected outcomes

This project reconstructs existing runway 12/30 lighting that has reached the end of its useful life. This grant funds phase 2, which consists of reconstructing 3,583 feet of lighting. Intended beneficiary: this grant will provide federal funding for airports associated with decatur, illinois.