Lewis University Airport Slated For $680K In Federal Funding

ROMEOVILLE, IL — A $680,000 improvement plan at the Lewis University Airport is scheduled to be included in a series of community projects that will be paid out of $2 million in federal funding that is being earmarked for needs in Illinois’ third Congressional district.

The money designated for the airport project will go toward the Joliet Regional Port District, which would build necessary safety fencing at the facility, U.S. Rep. Marie Newman announced in a news release.

The funding was approved by Congress last week and will enhance safety and security to people and property operating at the airport and will enclose active areas that are currently open to uncontrolled access to undesired animals, people, and vehicles not authorized to be on airport property, the release said.

“By providing security fencing and gate control in the airport parking and storage area, this funding will provide a valuable service not only to our airport patrons, visitors, and staff but also to the entire local community,” Chris Lawson, the director of aviation for the Joliet Regional Port District said in a news release.

Lawson said that the fencing is "another part of the puzzle" in keeping the airport safe. The improvements are part of a big series of projects at the airport, which was obtained by the Port District from Lewis University in 1989. The airport is also in the process of completing the building of a new control tower, which will be finished by June or July, Lawson said.

Newman said that other district projects included investing $1 million in the Thresholds Bridge South renovation, $500,000 to the Latino Organization of the Southwest, and $150,000 to the Advocate Christ Medical Center Trauma Recovery Center.

“By investing in health services, treatment supports, and programming for our youth and most vulnerable residents, we are strengthening the fabric of our entire district,” Newman said. “I am grateful to partner with each and every one of these community organizations who are using the funding to build a better tomorrow for the residents of Illinois’ 3rd District.”