Reconstruct airfield drainage/erosion control

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Great Lakes Region, awarded $1,210,507.37 under the Airport Improvement Program, Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Programs, and COVID-19 Airports Programs (CFDA 20.106) to the Williamson County Airport Authority on September 12, 2025. The grant funds Phase 1 of airfield drainage and erosion control reconstruction at Marion Municipal Airport (Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois) in Marion, Illinois, with work anticipated through September 11, 2029. The primary deliverable consists of reconstruction of existing grading and storm drain infrastructure on the west side of Runway 2/20 to mitigate ponding and ensure adequate handling of storm water runoff in aging infrastructure that has reached the end of its useful life.

This project represents a targeted infrastructure improvement initiative addressing critical drainage and erosion control deficiencies at the regional airport facility. The Williamson County Airport Authority, as the recipient, is responsible for project execution and compliance with FAA grant requirements, including periodic reporting on project bidding, contract awards, work initiation, and completion status. The award aligns with the FAA's strategic objectives of safety and operational excellence through modernization of essential airport infrastructure systems.

Activities and expected outcomes

This project reconstructs the existing grading and storm drain infrastructure to mitigate ponding and adequately handle storm water runoff that has reached the end of its useful life. This grant funds phase 1, which consists of construction on west side of runway 2/20. Intended beneficiary: this grant will provide federal funding for airports associated with marion, illinois.