California Construction News staff writer
Seventy-two California airports will receive a combined $158.4 million in federal funding to improve runways, terminals and other aviation infrastructure, the Federal Aviation Administration announced Monday.
The grants come primarily through the Airport Infrastructure Grant program, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the Airport Improvement Program. Both programs support runway and taxiway upgrades, while AIG also funds projects related to safety, sustainability, and airport transit connections. AIP additionally supports noise mitigation, signage, lighting and markings.
“Millions of Californians and visitors depend on safe, modernized airport travel to get where they need to go,” said U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla. “Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, airports across California will receive millions in targeted investments to renovate aging airport infrastructure and keep passengers moving smoothly.”
U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff said the funding will enhance safety, expand commercial capacity for California businesses and create jobs.
The largest awards include:
- Long Beach (Daugherty Field) Airport — $24.32 million for a 6,000-square-foot terminal expansion, including new gate hold areas, restrooms, a service animal relief area, and a backup generator.
- Palm Springs International Airport — $21.55 million for terminal reconstruction, including a new baggage handling system.
- Fresno Yosemite International Airport — $20.76 million to expand the terminal by more than 112,000 square feet, including a new concourse, boarding bridges, security checkpoint, Federal Inspection Station and baggage inspection system.
- Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport — $20.01 million for new transportation islands, shelters, pedestrian paths and connecting roadways in Terminal A.
- Chowchilla Airport — $6.64 million to reconstruct and maintain 3,250 feet of paved Runway 12/30.
Smaller grants will fund projects at Oakland International, San Luis Obispo, Sacramento Mather, Santa Maria, and Oxnard airports. Projects focus on runway and taxiway rehabilitation and reconstruction to maintain structural integrity and safety.
