HARLINGEN, Texas – Approximately $8.9 million in new funding is to coming to two Rio Grande Valley airports, U.S. Rep. Vicente Gonzalez has announced.
Valley International Airport is getting $2.7 million to expand its runway while McAllen International Airport has been awarded $6.2 million for drainage improvements, erosion control, and airfield safety design, the McAllen Democrat said.
The money comes from the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program. Its total allocation this year is $1.6 billion. This program is funded through standard congressional appropriations, which Gonzalez voted for.
“As our region continues to grow, it is crucial that our airports’ infrastructure is able to meet the demands of increased travel over the next few decades,” Congressman Gonzalez said. “These critical improvements will ensure the health and safety of passengers, pilots, crews, and airport technicians at Valley International and McAllen international airports.”
Marv Esterly, director of aviation at Valley International Airport, thanked Congressman Gonzalez for his help in securing the funds.
“We would like to thank Congressman Gonzalez for his support in securing funding for this critical airport infrastructure project,” Esterly said.
“This runway extension will assist our larger wide-body cargo aircraft, which operate on a daily basis here at Valley International Airport, by improving their ability to take off with heavier loads. In addition, the extra runway length, along with improved aircraft approach capabilities, will assist our airlines during inclement weather by minimizing delays and cancellations.”
Esterly’s counterpart at McAllen’s airport also commented on the new funding.
“McAllen International Airport works continuously in advancing infrastructure and equipment improvements by effectively requesting AIP funding from the FAA in collaboration with McAllen’s leadership and congressional representatives,” Elizabeth Suarez, aviation director at McAllen International Airport said.
“We are dedicated to ensuring that grant funds are responsibly allocated and utilized for the completion of these essential projects.”
McAllen City Manager Roel “Roy” Rodriguez, P.E., also commented on the new funding.
“The federal funding awarded to our airport will help start and complete capital improvement projects aimed at passenger safety,” Rodriguez said.
“We are grateful for the support of our legislative representatives and their teams for their vested commitment in securing funding for our McAllen International Airport as we work together in enhancing airport infrastructure for the benefit of our community.”
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