Downstate base may get more airmen

MASCOUTAH -- As many as 150 new airmen and mechanics may be stationed at Scott Air Force Base next summer.

Democratic Congressman Jerry Costello of Belleville says the growth comes as part of the planned expansion of the base's 126th Air Refueling Wing.

Costello says the latest announcement shows how he and other lawmakers are working to ensure that Scott is in the best position to take on new missions.

Costello announced in October that Scott can expect about 200 new civilian jobs starting in 2010 to manage contracts for Illinois and several other states.