EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) awarded two grants, totaling $27.7 million, to the City of El Paso to enhance the safety, efficiency and sustainability of El Paso International Airport (ELP), the City announced in a news release.
The grants will fund vital infrastructure improvements as part of the FAA’s national initiative to support airport enhancements through the FY24 Airport Improvement Program (AIP) and FY23 Supplemental Discretionary Grants, according to the City.
The City said its successful grant applications reflect its strong partnership with the FAA.
The improvements will strengthen the airport’s capabilities, ensuring long-term benefits for both passengers and operators, according to the City.
“We are excited to receive these FAA grants, which will improve the safety and efficiency of our airport and also support the long-term growth of our city and region,” said Mayor Oscar Leeser. “Our success in securing these federal funds is a reflection of our commitment to enhancing critical infrastructure without relying on local tax dollars. These projects are a testament to how we continue to make strategic improvements that benefit our community and position El Paso for future success.”
“I’m thrilled to join Mayor Leeser in announcing a Federal Aviation Administration grant of $26.8 million has been awarded to the City of El Paso” Congresswoman Escobar said. “As the only representative in our region to vote for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, I am proud to see this legislation touch the lives of so many El Pasoans. By investing in projects that enhance both safety and sustainability, we’re not just improving our airport—we’re ensuring a stronger, more resilient future for our entire community.”
Five Node Intersection Remediation Project — $26.8 million
This project will simplify a complex taxiway intersection, enhancing both safety and efficiency.
The FAA’s Runway Safety Action Team (RSAT), comprising FAA staff, ELP personnel and local stakeholders, identified this area as a high-risk “hot spot,” according to the City.
In response, ELP committed to remediating the issue with substantial FAA funding support.
Construction is expected to begin in January 2025, and the upgrades will include:
Reduction of taxiway intersections to streamline aircraft movement
Separation of commercial carrier traffic from general aviation traffic
Removal of unnecessary pavement to improve operational flow
ELP Terminal Roof Resilience Project Phase II — $813,000
This project addresses the replacement of the aging middle section of the terminal roof, focusing on enhancing energy efficiency in key areas like the security checkpoint and the terminal lobby, according to the City.
Work on this phase is set to begin in the spring of 2025.
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