Washington, DC  -  Sylacauga’s Merkel Field has received a grant for $153,165, and Talladega’s municipal airport was awarded $720,000, in an announcement today by Congressman Mike Rogers that helps improve the safety at both Third District airports.

 “Safe and reliable air service is essential to Talladega County’s economic well-being,” Rogers said. “With the help of Senators Shelby and Sessions, I am pleased to see these investments are being made in the Third District’s air facilities.”

Sylacauga’s Merkel Field will receive funds to install new fencing around the runway’s perimeter, as well as improve areas at either ends of the runway, known as the runway safety area. The Talladega Municipal Airport will receive funds to upgrade the airfield’s twenty year-old runway lighting system, helping to increase the runway’s safety and reliability.

Merkel Field Sylacauga Municipal Airport serves Sylacauga and Talladega County and is owned by the City Of Sylacauga. Talladega Municipal Airport serves both the city of Talladega and Talladega County and is owned by the City of Talladega.

Both grants announced today are administered by the U.S Department of Transportation and help bring each airport up to new DOT air safety standards for small and mid-size airports.