Atmore Municipal Airport’s runway safety will soon improve thanks to more than $60,000 in funding from the Federal government.

U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) announced an award of $66,500 for the Atmore facility as part of $1,603,357 awarded to airports across the state by the Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration.

“A strong transportation infrastructure is critical to attracting new businesses and industries,” Shelby said. “These important grants will help the airports in the region make necessary improvements for their safe and trustworthy operation.”

Atmore Municipal Airport Manager Mickey Parker said the funds will help get the facility in a better position for use and safety.

“The work will certainly improve safety greatly,” Parker said. “Along with roadway work we will be getting new lighting as well.”

Parker said new runway lights will be installed as well as a rotating beacon light, windsock and an instrument landing system.

“The work has already begun on the improvements,” Parker said. “We hope to have everything done in another two to three months.”

Shelby said the improvements are necessary across the region to keep Alabama moving forward in aviation travel.

“Such improvements are essential to ensuring that these airports remain efficient transportation hubs for those traveling to, from and through Alabama,” Shelby said.

Parker said the funding made possible through the awards are needed and appreciated.

“I’d like to thank everyone who helped get this funding,” Parker said. “These grants will help to keep us all safe.”

The Atmore Municipal Airport is just one of more than dozen other airports across the state to receive funding including the Monroe County Airport which received $117,443 to acquire land for approaches at the field.