Senator Frederick E. Berry (D-Peabody) announced today that Beverly Municipal Airport will receive a state grant for $40,258 to be used towards the purchase of maintenance equipment. The Massachusetts Aeronautics Commission (MAC) distributed the grant, which will provide the airport with the equipment to maintain the vegetation on the airfield for safety purposes.

"Beverly airport is an important resource for the North Shore and it is important that it is properly maintained," said Senator Berry. "This project is necessary to keep the airfield in acceptable condition in order for the airport to provide safe and superior service."

The Beverly Municipal Airport was one of the first airports included in MAC's Vegetation Management Plans in 1996. Over 72 acres of trees were cleared in a project funded 95% by the MAC in 1998. Since then, the airport has struggled with keeping the airfield clear. This project will greatly enhance the airport's ability to maintain the airfield by providing funds for the purchase of various landscaping equipment.