TxDOT Approves Funding for Tyler Control Tower, Others

AUSTIN — The Texas Transportation Commission has approved funding to pay for the continued operations of air traffic control towers at 14 airports in Texas, including Tyler Pounds Regional Airport. Currently, 21% of aircraft take off and land at these towered airports in Texas. Cuts in federal funding for air traffic control services at 149 facilities nationwide are scheduled to begin in phases starting next week. “Safety is our top priority and I am glad we’re able to keep these critical air traffic control services operating,” said Texas Transportation Commissioner Fred Underwood. “As a pilot, I know firsthand how critical these services are to the safety of air traffic.”

“I applaud the commission for taking this action as it was the right thing to do for Texas,” said TxDOT Executive Director Phil Wilson. “The commission’s action today will allow these communities to partner with TxDOT during this period of transition while longer-term solutions are being evaluated and considered.”

The decision by the Commission will provide approximately $2 million for the following 14 airports for 90 days: New Braunfels (BAZ); Brownsville (BRO); Easterwood Field College Station (CLL); TSTC Waco (CNW); Lone Star Executive Houston (CXO); Georgetown Muni (GTU); San Marcos Muni (HYI); Dallas Executive (RBD); Sugarland Regional (SGR); Stinson Muni San Antonio (SSF); Collin County Regional (TKI); Texarkana (TXK) ; and Victoria Regional (VCT). Tyler Pounds Manager Davis Dickson is one of many who are very happy with the move — but he says the job’s not done. Dickson says the airport will be working with TxDOT through the 90-day period as Tyler Pounds gets ready for permanent plans to keep the control tower open.