Grant & Loan Awards: Telfair County
Telfair County
AIRGeorgia Fund: $433,922
Awarded: 06/24/2009
Applicant: Telfair-Wheeler Airport Authority
Description:
AIRGeorgia funds to assist with improvements to Telfair-Wheeler Airport to extend the 4,030 ft runway to 5,001 ft (received ARRA/stimulus funds for this activity) and relocate an electric power transmission line (AIRGeorgia). Both Telfair and Wheeler counties connect to Georgia Ports via highway and rail but airport upgrades are needed to compete in today’s highly competitive economic environment. The existing runway is inadequate and needs extending to serve corporate and twin engine aircraft. US Highways 341, 441, 280 converging in McRae provide economic potential to attract industry and tourists to the area. The counties house a state park, hunting reserves, wildlife management areas, an equestrian facility and motocross park as well as a world-class golf course. Husquavarna, Telfair's largest employer with 1,400 employees, expressed a need for the airport expansion as has the Corrections Corp of America (CCA) who transports inmates to and from their Wheeler and Telfair facilities.
Total Budgeted Project Cost: $2,515,930