Chicago Construction News staff writer
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is awarding nearly $1 billion from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to 99 airports of all shapes and sizes across the country.
O’Hare International Airport will receive $50 million.
Funded projects are designed to meet the growing demand for air travel and invests in new baggage systems, larger security checkpoints and improved ground transportation. Work will increase terminal sustainability and improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Several grants will address the needs of aging air traffic control towers. The investments will go to airports in 47 states and two territories.
“Americans deserve the best airports in the world, and with demand for air travel surging back, this funding to improve the passenger experience comes at the right time,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “These grants will make it faster and easier to check your bags, get through security and find your gate, all while creating jobs and supporting local economies.”
Grants go to projects that will build new or expanded terminal facilities including:
- $50 million to O’Hare International Airport in Chicago to help fund a project to rehabilitate and expand passenger access for the 60-year-old Terminal 3. This includes a reconfigured Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint, improvements to the central passenger corridor, new Americans with Disability Act (ADA) compliant and family restrooms, and updates to the passenger baggage system to help get travelers in and out of O’Hare more quickly.
“Today’s funding doesn’t just improve airport terminals. It creates opportunities in communities large and small for good-paying jobs and a chance to be part of our country’s thriving aviation sector,” Deputy FAA Administrator A. Bradley Mims saidin a statement.
Awards are on top of the $1 billion for Airport terminals announced for 85 airports last year. The vast majority of those projects are under construction.
