RANTOUL, Ill. (WAND) — The Rantoul National Aviation Center (RNAC) is now eligible for grants that will help the airport make an estimated $36.4 million in improvements.
The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Aviation (FAA) announced Thursday that RNAC is eligible for grants under the Military Airport Program (MAP) in fiscal year 2027.
The MAP provides funding to former or current military airports. RNAC was established in 1993 after Chanute Air Force Base was decommissioned.
"This is a major moment for Rantoul and a real investment in our future," said Mayor Samuel E. Hall III. "This $36 million commitment over the next five years positions our airport to keep up with growing demand while strengthening the infrastructure that supports it."
The airport's projects eligible for MAP funding during the five-year period include updating the airport layout plan, improvements to the runway safety area, rehabilitating lighting and drainage, building two taxiways, expanding hangar facilities, and upgrading the fuel farm.
"What excites me most is what this makes possible. We're not just making upgrades — we're creating opportunities for economic development, job growth and new business activity in and around the airport," said Hall III. "This is how we continue building momentum in Rantoul — by making smart investments that support our residents today, while positioning our community for long-term success."
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