LaredoBuzz.Com

Courtesy Alexis Torres,

Funds will be used for a Terminal Improvement Program and taxiway construction

LAREDO, TX— U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced today that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded $27,694,964 in federal funds to Laredo International Airport for the construction of a new taxiway and other airport improvement projects.

Specifically, the airport will receive $18,506,692 through the Airport Improvement Program in the CARES Act, which will be used towards expanding the terminal and remodeling the building. Additionally, the airport will receive $9,188,272 through the Federal Aviation Administration for taxiway construction, which will provide access to aircraft hangars and a cargo apron.

“Despite being the wealthiest country in the world, the United States ranks 13th globally in terms of infrastructure investment,” said Congressman Cuellar. “This critical funding will ensure our airport can continue to pay their employees, maintain and upgrade their facilities, and protect its passengers. As a senior Appropriator, I am committed to fighting for our transportation and travel industry so we can continue to strengthen our economy and create more jobs. I look forward to the completion of these improvement projects. I want to thank Southwest Region Regional Administrator FAA, Rob Lowe, FAA Southwest Region Office of Airports Director, Ignacio Flores, Mayor Pete Saenz, City Manager Robert Eads, Laredo City Council members, and Airport Director Jeffrey Miller for their efforts in ensuring Laredo’s airport continues to serve as a 21st century transportation hub along our southern border.”

“The federal money allocated to this project represents that the vision for this new infrastructure will become a reality and will certainly be of benefit to our airport in so many ways,” said Mayor Pete Saenz.

“This is a celebration of progress that will have a positive impact in our great city. As the aviation industry continues to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to recognize the work many of our staff members have done and will continue to do to upgrade,” said City Manager, Robert A. Eads.

“Experience will continue to be our utmost priority for citizens and travelers who come visit our wonderful city. Along with city and airport staff, we will constantly strive to improve the experience for all travelers and operators in the terminal and the rest of the airport’s facilities,” said District 5 Council Member, Ruben Gutierrez, Jr.

“I want to create a sense of place for Laredo. Many times, we see our business travelers come and go from the airport, and they never get a chance to see, explore, and love Laredo like all the rest of us do. We want to create that sense of place here at the airport and people will be able to experience it so they will want to come back and actually commit to a vacation in our city,” said Jeffrey Miller, Laredo International Airport Director.

The Terminal Improvement Program includes a building expansion and reconfiguration in addition to a roof replacement. The plan also includes a relocation and expansion of the TSA Security Screening Checkpoint (SSCP), remodeled and expanded restrooms, a dedicated meet and greet area, a nursing mother’s room, and an adult changing room. There will also be an improvement of the concession spaces.