Gumm, Carey Announce $57,000 Grant for Durant Airport Improvements
April 8th, 2010
OKLAHOMA CITY –Senator Jay Paul Gumm and Rep. John Carey announced Thursday the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission had approved another grant for the city of Durant’s Eaker Field Airport.
The grant, in excess of $57,000, is being combined with federal and city dollars to fund the final construction phase of a project upgrading runways and make other needed improvements.
Gumm, a Democrat from Durant, said these enhancements will help spur additional economic growth in the area and help Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s outstanding aviation program.
“More tourists are coming to our area with the expansion of the Choctaw Resort, and the development of the Pointe Vista Resort at Lake Texoma will boost those numbers higher,” he said. “Business use is also increasing. Our existing businesses are using the airport even more, and prospective industrial recruits also use the facility to get here quickly and efficiently.
“Eaker Field is rapidly becoming Durant’s gateway to the world for both business and recreation.”
Rep. Carey, D-Durant, said he was extremely pleased with the award, and agreed the improvements would help fuel existing and future economic development projects for southeastern Oklahoma.
“Now is the time for us to make these key infrastructure investments. We’ve been working hard with city leaders, federal officials and local businesses to ensure that as the economy turns around, we are in the best position possible to take advantage,” Carey said. “We have the natural resources, the geographic location and the people to take not only tourism in the area, but industry to the next level, creating the jobs we need to grow our economy.”
Durant Mayor Jerry Tomlinson said efforts to expand and improve Eaker Field Airport were a reflection of the community’s desire to help the city grow and prosper.
“We appreciate the work Senator Gumm and Representative Carey have done on our behalf, and thank the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission, as well,” Tomlinson said.
“Projects like these ensure we are on track in our efforts to create new jobs and attract new businesses and families to our community. This growth will raise our standard of living, and help us promote Durant in a way that benefits all our citizens.”