$1.1 MILLION TO IMPROVE BATON ROUGE & SHREVEPORT AIRPORTS

WASHINGTON (June 7) – Sens. John Breaux and Mary Landrieu (both D-La.) announced the award of $1.1 million to update Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport and Shreveport Regional.

A total of $1,095,000 has been allocated by U.S. Department of Transportation to construct a runway safety area in Baton Rouge and rehabilitate the runway in Shreveport.

"Baton Rouge and Shreveport are two of Louisiana's largest metropolitan areas. These airports are used everyday by parcel companies, airlines, and private pilots who cater to the needs of these large cities," Sen. Breaux said. "To continue serving the people of Baton Rouge and Shreveport our airports must be in good condition. These funds will help ensure these airports remain in good operating condition for area residents."

"Growing business transactions on the Internet are changing our entire global economy, but we need real world highways, waterways, ports, rail and airports in order to transport these products. In addition, many people who live and do business in Louisiana rely on our airports to quickly, efficiently and safely move around the state, making airports an integral part of our infrastructure. That is why I am so pleased to learn Shreveport and Baton Rouge will receive this $1.1 million for airport rehabilitation and improvements," Sen. Landrieu said.

The two projects include:

* $510,000 to construct a runway safe area at Baton Rouge Metropolitan, Ryan Field.

* $585,000 to rehabilitate runway at Shreveport Regional.