HOWARD COUNTY, Ind. (WOWO): The Kokomo Municipal Airport has been awarded a $2.2 million grant from the Federal Aviation Administration.

The federal funding will be used to extend the airport’s main runway to 6,000 feet for accommodating larger airplanes and increased demand for air travel. The grant will also enable the airport to make improvements to its other runways in addition to upgrading the airport’s lighting.

 “Expanding the Kokomo Municipal Airport’s runway meets the demand expressed by our international companies,” said Kokomo Mayor Greg Goodnight. “The airport is a major asset for Kokomo, and enhancing its capacity is part of our efforts to attract and retain business and industry.”

Construction is expected to begin immediately and be completed by November.