Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is slated to receive a significant federal boost, as Rep. Ruben Gallego (AZ-03), Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, and Sky Harbor’s Aviation Director Chad Makovsky announced a $36 million grant from the Federal Aviation Administration's Airport Terminal Program. The trio unveiled the plans at a recent press conference, emphasizing the airport's growth and the importance of maintaining its reputation as a leader in sustainability.
"I was proud to help pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in the House. The investments from the historic law are coming home to Arizona, and it’s because of these investments that Phoenix has become one of America’s greatest cities," Rep. Ruben Gallego stated, outlining how the federal funds are expected to further bolster economic opportunities in the area. According to a press release from his office, the upgrades will aim to enhance the traveler experience at the busy transport hub.
Mayor Kate Gallego cheered the airport's record growth and frequent addition of new destinations, connecting the dots between the city's efforts to constantly refresh the entry point to their state and the Congressional support of landmark legislation. "Our beloved Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is experiencing record growth, frequently adding new destinations and earning national accolades," she told the press, underscoring the impact of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law on the city's success in attracting new opportunities.
The funding injection will be utilized to upgrade terminal facilities, with a focus on replacing aging infrastructure such as chillers, condensing water pumps, and cooling towers. Aviation Director Chad Makovsky highlighted the need to keep up to be able to swiftly adapt to the rising passenger demand and high expectations for environmental stewardship. "Phoenix Sky Harbor is the gateway to Arizona, and it is as busy as it has ever been," Makovsky said, pinpointing the importance of federal support in taking the airport to the next phase of development.
Significantly, this is not the first instance of Sky Harbor benefiting from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, having already received over $15 million for previous improvements. Overall, Arizona's receipt from the law now totals $7.4 billion, covering not just airport enhancements but also wider state projects including the expansion of the I-10 and fortifying the state's ports of entry.
