PALM SPRINGS, CA — Three Inland Empire airports will use grant funds through a Federal Aviation Administration program to make improvements for travelers. Most recently, the Palm Springs International Airport received $6 million from the Federal Aviation Administration this week earmarked for terminal improvements, according to a recent news release.
This is a portion of approximately $970 million in funds awarded to nationwide airfields.
“Investing in America’s airport infrastructure isn’t just about upgrading runways and terminals — it’s about growing local economies, creating jobs, and ensuring the safety and efficiency of travel,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a statement. “With the grants we’re announcing today — nearly $1 billion in total — we’re helping modernize 125 airports across the country in order to make their operations safer, more accessible, and more convenient for travelers.”
A total of 125 airport-related projects nationwide received funds.
The money awarded to Palm Springs International Airport was designated for “the demolition of existing foundations and exterior building walls, as well as the construction of a new foundation for the expansion of the existing terminal.”
In the Inland Empire, the Ontario International Airport and San Bernardino International Airport also received millions in funding for improvement projects. Several other Southern California airports, including Los Angeles International Airport, John Wayne Airport, Hollywood Burbank Airport, and San Diego International Airport, also received funds for improvement projects.
The Ontario International Airport was slated for $4 million toward runway and taxiway rehabilitation projects, while San Bernardino International Airport was would receive $1.5 million, according to the FAA.
Los Angeles International Airport received $30 million for the Terminal Roadways Project, which includes “construction of roadways, ramps, bridges, pedestrian bridges, intersection improvements, traffic signals/controls, traffic monitoring/management equipment, street lighting, signage and striping, and sidewalks.”
According to the FAA, John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana received $10.6 million to install six replacement escalators that are earthquake-safe, more reliable, and will “generate up to 20% energy savings. “
Hollywood Burbank Airport received $9.3 million for “exterior glass, roofing and drywall for a replacement passenger terminal, consisting of 14 gates.”
San Diego International Airport received nearly $12.1 million for new terminal construction, including “the installation of two passenger boarding bridges, pilings, foundation concrete, flooring, roofing and structural steel.”
“We’re working to ensure passengers’ safety, comfort, and convenience throughout their airport journey,” FAA Associate Administrator for Airports Shannetta R. Griffin said in a statement. “Today’s investment also builds communities by providing good-paying jobs and infusing dollars in local economies.”
