funding she has secured for the first phase of a perimeter fence security upgrade. She was joined by (from
left to right) DeKalb City Manager Bill Nicklas, Seventh Ward Alderman Tony Faivre, DeKalb County
Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Paul Borek, Mayor Cohen Barnes and Airport
Manager Renee Riani.
Representative Lauren Underwood (IL-14) visited DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport to celebrate $1,125,000 in federal funding, which Underwood secured for the airport. This funding will be used to replace the airport’s perimeter fencing, the first phase of a security upgrade that is critical to maintaining the airport as a regional economic development engine.
“I am proud to deliver over $20 million to fund 15 projects across our community, including over $1 million for DeKalb Airport,” said Underwood. “Ensuring that we are making proper federal investments in our local infrastructure is a top priority of mine. I secured this funding to ensure that the airport can continue to serve as a transportation and economic hub for our community for years to come.”
DeKalb Airport has helped attract several large employers to our region, and the enhanced perimeter fencing, which will be supported by the funding secured by Rep. Underwood, will maintain and grow the airport as an economic development asset.
The fencing, which will greatly improve security, is a requirement for the airport to reach a higher FAA status and service larger jet aircraft. This new market for the airport will strengthen its financial position as arrivals and departures increase. At the same time, the upgraded status will help the region attract new types of businesses seeking an airport with the capacity for larger aircrafts.
“We are proud to serve as a transportation and economic hub for the region, and federal investments like this one, which Rep. Underwood worked to secure, will enable us to continue serving the community,” said DeKalb Mayor Cohen Barnes. “We can’t wait to get started on this project!”
This funding was submitted by Underwood through the Community Project Funding initiative, through which Members can help direct federal funding to projects that address the most pressing needs throughout northern Illinois. In 2022, Underwood selected 14 other projects that will directly benefit the 14th district. Learn more about the additional projects at Underwood.house.gov.