U.S. Reps. Sam Graves (R-Mo.) and Garrett Graves (R-La.) introduced a bill Wednesday that would incentivize airports to complete runway and other projects quickly as a way to save taxpayer money.
The bill, Expedited Delivery of Airport Infrastructure Act of 2021, would enable the use of Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds to make incentive payments for the early completion of AIP eligible projects. AIP provides grants for the planning, development, and execution of infrastructure projects, like runways and taxiways, at public-use airports.
“This is a proven, smart reform that already works for road and bridge project construction,” Rep. Sam Graves, ranking member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said. “Delivering airport projects ahead of schedule can help save money and essentially provide a similar impact as increasing investment without any additional federal resources. This bill passed through the House without opposition last Congress, and I look forward to now moving it through both Houses of Congress and seeing it signed into law.”
The legislation would allow airports to use up to $1 million in AIP money to incentivize contractors to complete projects early. Similar incentives are common in the construction of surface transportation projects, resulting in cost savings.
“Now that vaccines are being distributed and administered across the country, we need to make sure our airports are ready to handle the pent-up demand from decreased travel over the last year – whether vacations, leisure, or business trips,” said Rep. Garret Graves. “This legislation takes successful, existing road project programs and implements the same efficient practices to get airport improvement projects completed faster, meaning we will improve the efficiency and capacity of our airports while handling a runway or taxiway that is temporarily out of service. Overall, this is a win-win for airports and taxpayers alike.”
The bill has support from infrastructure stakeholders like the Airports Council International – North America and the American Association of Airport Executives.