Airports in 47 States Will Receive Funding to Improve Infrastructure

The FAA recently awarded 296 grants, totaling $566.4 million, to be used towards the modernization of American airports. This funding stems from an Infrastructure Law Airport Infrastructure Grants (AIG) program.

BIL was approved for $25 billion in total project funding. The project aims to improve every aspect of airfield operations. These upgrades include planning and development assistance, further sustainability, terminal expansion, baggage system changes, new runway safety procedures, and reduced noise pollution.

“We’re helping ensure traveler safety by upgrading every part of airfield operations, from better runway and taxiway configuration to vivid signage, better lighting, and improved pavement markings," explained Shannetta R. Griffin, FAA Associate Administrator for Airports.

Many of these grants have already been distributed, the largest to date being given to Ellison Onizuka Kona International. This airport, located in Keahole, Hawaii, received $49.6 million to cover the rehabilitation of runway 17/35. In January, this runway was temporarily shut down to assess cracks in the pavement. Reconstruction was scheduled to occur shortly after, but was delayed due to accelerated degradation. The runway was shut down a second time in April for the same reason.

Seattle-Tacoma International in Washington also received a grant. The $45.4 million funds structural, seismic, and building system upgrades to Concourse S. This concourse is the main hub for international passengers, and needs renovation to meet the growing demand.

The list of distributed grants continues to grow under the Airport Infrastructure Grants program. A full list of recipients can be found on the FAA website.

FMI: www.faa.gov/bil