Governor Beshear Announces Funding for ‘Signature Gateway’ to Blue Grass Airport
Project will help prepare for FEI World Equestrian Games
LEXINGTON, Ky. – Gov. Steve Beshear today announced that more than $586,000 in Transportation Enhancement funding will be invested in improvements at Blue Grass Airport in preparation for an event that will draw visitors to Kentucky from around the globe – the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
“In 2010, we will host the largest equestrian sporting event ever held in the United States,” the Governor said in a visit to the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Airport Board. “We intend to make a favorable impression – and a lasting impression – on the thousands who will come to the FEI World Equestrian Games. We are pleased to partner with you on a project that will have such a positive and lasting impact on Kentucky.”
The governor presented the Airport Board with a ceremonial check representing a $586,233 grant through the federal Transportation Enhancement program. The Airport Board is adding $550,000 in matching funds to the project, which will involve reconstruction and beautification of the airport’s entryway.
“We are very appreciative of the support we have received from Governor Beshear, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and our legislators,” said Michael Gobb, Blue Grass Airport executive director. “This new entryway will set the stage for the beauty visitors will experience throughout their visit to central Kentucky, enhancing their lasting impression of our region.”
Transportation Enhancement programs offer federal funding for unique and creative approaches that integrate transportation into a community in an environmentally friendly way.
The Blue Grass Airport Landscaping and Scenic Beautification Project will include an ornamental masonry wall, special stone features, and a variety of trees, shrubs, flowers and ground covers. Lush landscaped areas will be surrounded by traditional dry stack limestone planter walls. Native Kentucky plants and materials will be used, giving visitors a sample of Kentucky’s botanical wealth.
“In addition to the visual enhancements, this project will include some significant safety improvements around the entrance to Blue Grass Airport,” said Transportation Secretary Joe Prather. “The entrance will be more easily recognized and the routes easier to understand.”
The Airport Board anticipates receiving bids on the project in October 2008, with construction planned for completion by fall of 2009.
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