The U.S. DOT said the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will invest $870 million on airport infrastructure and safety enhancements.
Nearly 340 grants for airports in 44 states and two territories will address runways, taxiways, safety and sustainability projects, as well as terminal, airport transit connections, and roadway projects. Part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Airport Infrastructure Grants program will provide funding to 339 projects across the country.
“From our regional hubs to some of America’s busiest airports, we are investing in critical infrastructure that will provide American families with a more seamless, efficient travel experience for years to come,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy said. “Upgrading our runway infrastructure is part of our work to usher in the Golden Age of Transportation.”
The grants included $289 million to Los Angeles International Airport for a new terminal access road; $50 million to Miami International Airport to reconstruct the terminal roof; $9.1 million to Akron-Canton Airport in Ohio to rehabilitate passenger bridges and reconstruct key airport facilities; and $4.2 million to Juneau International Airport in Alaska for snow removal equipment replacement.
“We’re making airports safer and more convenient for travelers across the U.S,” FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said. “We’re releasing grants at record speed to ensure we keep up with the growing demand for travel.”
Passed in 2021, the IIJA provided $14.5 billion in funding over five years starting in FY 2022. The grant program included up to $2.39 billion for primary airports and up to $500 million for nonprimary airports. AIG funding can be used for airport planning, development, terminal improvements, baggage system upgrades, runway and taxiway rehabilitation, roadway and access improvements, and other safety-related infrastructure needs.