Cohen Announces New Federal Funding for Four Vital Memphis Projects

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN-9) today announced the National Civil Rights Museum, the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority, the Memphis Bioworks Foundation, and Freedom From Unnecessary Negatives could receive more than $2 million once the FY 2011 appropriations process is finalized.

“We haven’t reached the finish line yet but some of Memphis’ most critical projects will receive new federal funds soon,” said Congressman Cohen. “These funds will help renovate the National Civil Rights Museum, help protect the Memphis-Shelby County Airport from an earthquake, help local farmers, and provide our children with the tools they need to lead a happy, safe, prosperous life. I will continue to shepherd these projects through Congress and work closely with my House and Senate colleagues to ensure these important Memphis projects are funded.”

The House appropriations committee has passed five appropriation bills to date. Each bill still has to be considered and passed by the House. The Senate also has its own version of each bill and both versions must be merged into final conference reports. The amount levels during this process may change.

If approved by the House and Senate, the following four Memphis organizations will receive new federal funding:

• $750,000 for the National Civil Rights Museum

Purpose: Renovate museum to expand visitor service areas and public accommodations.

• $1 million for the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority
• $500,000 for the Memphis Bioworks Foundation
• $400,000 for Freedom From Unnecessary Negatives