Bloomington, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Central Illinois Regional Airport at Bloomington-Normal has been awarded a 12.5-million-dollar airport improvement grant from the Federal Aviation Administration.  The grant will fund the first phase of CIRA’s upcoming Runway 11/29 Rehabilitation Project.

“The first phase of the rehabilitation work will take place throughout the spring, summer and fall of 2026,” said CIRA Executive Director, Carl Olson in a press release. “We are also planning for a second phase of the rehabilitation to take place in calendar year 2027.”

The project will involve pavement rehab and the installation of new runway lights, signs, and safety equipment on the east-west runway.

“The Airport Authority and our community recognize the efforts and support if multiple offices and agencies on CIRA’s behalf to secure this grant, which will not only result in a safer, more vibrant airport, but will increase new investment and the creation of jobs for local workers.” CIRA Chair, Alan Sender.

CIRA provides air service to and from the world into central Illinois.