North Austin News

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) has been granted $39.1 million in federal funds from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill. This funding will support two important improvement projects that will enhance the airport's capabilities and meet the needs of its passengers and stakeholders.

The first project will receive $14.25 million for the design of AUS's new Concourse B. The concourse will have a minimum of 10 gates, with the potential for expansion up to 20 gates. This project is a crucial phase of Austin's Airport Expansion and Development Program, which covers all aspects of passenger and tenant facilities. It will also include the construction of a subgrade tunnel connecting the Barbara Jordan Terminal interface to Concourse B, with provisions for future expansion to a Concourse C.

The second project will be funded with $25.26 million and involves the infill of the existing Barbara Jordan Terminal's atrium with a concrete slab at the ticketing/concourse level. This expansion will add approximately 13,000 square feet of new terminal space, increasing the terminal's capacity for accommodating passenger traffic. The project will also include upgrades to mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.

Austin Mayor Kirk Watson expressed his excitement about the funding, stating, "Not only did we experience more passengers traveling through AUS in 2023 compared to any other year prior, we are now poised to help ensure much-needed funding for critical projects that will elevate our airport into a world-class hub with top-tier infrastructure."

Interim City Manager Jesús Garza emphasized the collaborative efforts between local and federal government, saying, "The collaborative efforts between local and federal government, alongside numerous city departments, underscore our shared commitment to progress and innovation."

The airport is grateful for the support from the federal delegation in securing this funding. Robert Goode, Assistant City Manager, expressed his gratitude, saying, "We extend our deepest gratitude to our entire federal delegation for their support in securing this critical funding. Their collaborative efforts have paved the way for transformative improvements in our city's mobility infrastructure."

Ghizlane Badawi, Interim AUS Chief Executive Officer, expressed excitement about the funding, stating, "AUS is both grateful and excited to be awarded this FAA funding, which will allow us to expedite near-term enhancements such as the Atrium Infill, while progressing on transformative, once-in-a-generation projects like the Midfield Concourse."

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport has been actively working on various improvement projects to enhance the traveler experience. From the groundbreaking of the new Outbound Baggage Handling System in 2022 to the commencement of the West Gate Expansion project last year, the airport is committed to innovation and growth. The airport's ongoing West Infill Project aims to create a larger checkpoint to accommodate more passengers. Throughout these endeavors, customer service remains a top priority.

With this funding, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is looking forward to delivering even greater excellence to its valued passengers and the larger community.

© All Rights Reserved.