On December 14, 2024, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth met with Southern Illinois Airport Director Gary Shafer to announce the securing of $500,000 in federal funding for the Glenn Poshard Transportation Education Center. Duckworth toured the facility alongside SIU Chancellor Dr. Austin Lane and former U.S. Representative Glenn Poshard, emphasizing the airport's vital role as an economic hub for the region. She reiterated her commitment to advocating for further federal investments to enhance transportation infrastructure in Southern Illinois.
The funding, which was secured in October 2024 through the Delta Regional Authority, will support hangar expansion projects at the airport, which was renamed in October 2022 in honor of Glenn Poshard. Duckworth has previously contributed to the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, which includes provisions aimed at improving consumer safety and expanding the aviation workforce. This recent funding is part of a broader effort to bolster economic development and educational opportunities in the transportation sector, reflecting Duckworth's ongoing dedication to enhancing infrastructure and safety in aviation across the region.
In a related context, the Clovis Regional Airport in New Mexico recently celebrated a groundbreaking ceremony for a new terminal, backed by a $22.7 million investment, including significant federal grants. This project is expected to improve connectivity and stimulate economic growth in eastern New Mexico, showcasing a nationwide trend of investing in airport infrastructure to foster local economies. Such initiatives highlight the importance of federal support in enhancing transportation facilities, which are crucial for regional development and economic resilience.