Rehabilitate runway lighting; rehabilitate runway

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Eastern Region awarded a $5.5 million Project Grant to the Virginia Highlands Airport Commission on August 29, 2025, under the Airport Improvement Program (CFDA 20.106) to rehabilitate runway infrastructure and lighting systems at Virginia Highlands Airport in Abingdon, Virginia. This award funds the final construction phase of a multi-year project scheduled for completion by August 28, 2029, and addresses the rehabilitation of 4,570 feet of existing paved Runway 6/24 to maintain structural integrity, minimize foreign object debris, and extend the runway's useful life. Additionally, the grant supports the rehabilitation of existing runway lighting systems to enhance operational safety and infrastructure longevity.

The Airport Improvement Program administered by the FAA provides federal funding to support the development and modernization of public-use airport infrastructure nationwide, with the objective of maintaining a comprehensive system of airports adequate to meet civil aeronautics needs. The Virginia Highlands Airport project aligns with the FAA's strategic goals of safety and operational excellence while supporting the regional transportation infrastructure needs of Southwest Virginia through critical aviation facility improvements.

Activities and expected outcomes

This project rehabilitates 4,570 feet of existing paved runway 6/24 to maintain the structural integrity and minimize foreign object debris to extend its useful life. This project rehabilitates existing runway 6/24 lighting to extend its useful life. This grant funds the final phase, which consists of construction. Intended beneficiary: this grant will provide federal funding for airports associated with abingdon, virginia.