(This article has been updated to add new information).
Palm Springs International Airport has been awarded $6 million by the Federal Aviation Administration for terminal improvements, part of roughly $970 million in funds awarded to airfields across the nation.
The money awarded to Palm Springs International 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.”
The airport will upgrade its outgoing baggage handling system as part of the expansion.
The project is separate from the airport’s master plan update, which will see terminal expansions and a rental car facility built to accommodate an expected increase in travelers over the next 20 years. The airport must use the funds awarded this week within the next four years and is targeting construction for 2025.
The Palm Springs City Council must formally accept the funding before the airport will begin planning the expansion.
“After two consecutive years of record passenger numbers at PSP, this funding is vital to our mission to deliver a smooth and efficient travel experience for our guests,” airport Executive Director Harry Barrett said in a statement Friday. “This grant from the FAA allows us to expand our outbound baggage area to meet current and future demand, supporting our airport’s growth and our community’s needs.”
A total of 125 airport-related projects nationwide received funds.
“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.”
Several other Southern California airports also received funds. Los Angeles International Airport received $30 million that will be used 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, sidewalks.”
John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana received $10.6 million for the installation of six replacement escalators that are earthquake-safe, more reliable and will “generate up to 20% energy savings,” according to the FAA.
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.”
City News Service contributed to this report.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Palm Springs airport gets $6 million from feds for expansion
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