Houston Airports received notification that its two commercial airports will receive $43.6 million in federal funding that will allow for upgrades to airport terminals and improve energy efficiency.
George Bush Intercontinental Airport will receive $40 million and William P. Hobby Airport will receive $3.6 million. The grant money will fund projects that improve energy efficiencies, ticketing, security screening, checkpoints, baggage systems, and gates, and modernize curbside access and loading bridges.
Jarrett Simmons, Houston Airports’ Chief Infrastructure Officer, said that Houston Airports was extremely pleased to be a recipient of the grants.
“Airlines operating at Houston’s two commercial airports desperately need additional gates,” said Simmons. “Currently at IAH we have requests for 17 new gates from airlines, which we cannot provide today. At Hobby Airport, we need seven new gates. These gates are needed to continue to drive the growth of these carriers in our region.”
“The money from these grants will significantly contribute to adding that much-needed gate capacity. Houston Airports is working with all airlines to finalize expansion plans at both airports.”
“The facilities have to be designed to be usable by all citizens, including people with disabilities. These grants will allow us to make sure that all passengers can continue to use and enjoy our facilities.”
The Federal Aviation Administration handed down the grant, part of the fiscal 2022 Airport Terminal Program for 85 projects nationwide. The $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act established the program, which includes $1 billion annually over five years.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said, “Americans deserve modern airports that meet the needs of their families and growing passenger demand.”
In a statement, Houston Airports officials said:
“Houston Airports appreciates the hard work of the federal government to allocate these funds and sincerely thanks the Houston congressional delegation and the FAA for their support in assisting us in modernizing our aging infrastructure.”