FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, September 22, 2000
Contact: Bill Mosley
Tel.: (202) 366-5571
DOT 175-00
U.S. Transportation Secretary Slater Joins Dedication
Of New Memphis Runway
MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- U.S. Transportation Secretary Rodney E. Slater today said that Memphis International Airport’s new, two-mile long runway will enhance the airport’s ability to serve as a major international hub, advancing President Clinton and Vice President Gore’s goals of promoting economic growth in the United States and expanding world trade.
"Vice President Gore and I were here for the runway groundbreaking three years ago, and it is truly satisfying to join you for its completion,’" Secretary Slater said at the dedication ceremony. "With the opening of this new runway, Memphis has secured its destiny as a ‘world-class portal’ for moving people and products in the global economy of the 21st century."
Joining Secretary Slater was Jane F. Garvey, administrator of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration. Also participating in the ceremony were Tennessee Gov. Don Sundquist, Rep. Harold Ford Jr. of Tennessee, local officials and representatives of airlines that serve Memphis.
The new runway will permit fully loaded, wide-bodied air cargo and passenger planes to fly nonstop to most of the world. This will provide savings to airlines, passengers and shippers by eliminating the need for planes to make refueling stops before reaching their final destination.
The Department of Transportation provided $71.1 million of the total construction cost of $110 million. The project involved completely rebuilding the existing 8,400-foot runway and extending it by 2,700 feet.
Memphis International is already the largest generator of jobs and taxes in Tennessee and, due to Federal Express’ operations, handles more cargo than any other airport in the world. In addition, Northwest Airlines, which has a hub at Memphis, plans to expand its operations later this year. The new runway will allow the airport to accommodate its rapid growth and enhance the airport’s role as an economic engine, the Secretary said.
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