WASHINGTON, D.C. - Valley Congressman, Bill Johnson alongside fellow Representative, Dave Joyce have introduced legislation that if passed would designate the Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport, as well as the Youngstown Air Reserve Station (YARS) as a "primary airport."

Congressman Johnson says the Western Reserve Port Authority (WRPA) and local officials have been working "relentlessly" to maintain the airport, attract commercial airlines and support the mission of the 910th Airlift Wing.

Johnson says designating the airport and YARS as a primary airport would help achieve these goals.

"Our region would greatly benefit from this designation, and I look forward to working with Rep. Joyce on this legislation to promote economic growth and strengthen defense opportunities within the Mahoning Valley," Johnson said.

Joyce says in addition to economic growth for the Valley, this designation would increase military readiness and fulfill critical infrastructure needs for YARS.

"I am proud to partner with Congressman Johnson on this legislation to ensure the men and women on our airbase have the resources they need to perform their duties efficiently and effectively while supporting economic growth in the Mahoning Valley," Joyce said.

Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport is currently the only commercial airport in the country with an air reserve station that doesn't have commercial air services.