San Diego International Airport Gains $12.1 Million Federal Grant for Terminal Expansion

In a substantial push for infrastructure development, the San Diego International Airport is set to benefit from a hefty grant from the Biden Administration. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has allocated $12.1 million in discretionary grant funds to the airport, courtesy of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – Airport Terminal Program (ATP). This cash injection is earmarked for Phase 1B of the New Terminal 1 (New T1) project, which promises to enhance various structural components of the terminal, including adding two passenger boarding bridges.

The investment will bolster the airport's ability to handle the ever-growing traffic, providing travelers with a more seamless journey through the gateway of San Diego. As announced by the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, the funding will cover critical construction areas, from the laying down of foundational concrete to the erection of structural steel. "We thank the FAA and truly appreciate the support of U.S. Senator Alex Padilla and Congressman Scott Peters as well as our entire congressional delegation in making these funds available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law," said Kimberly J. Becker.

This third ATP grant raises the airport's total discretionary funding to $87.1 million under the infrastructure law initiative. These developments are a fraction of the nationwide infrastructure overhaul envisaged by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which represents a commitment to modernizing and maintaining competitive transit spaces. SAN and one-hundred and twenty-five U.S. airports are reaping the benefits of the grant program this cycle.

The New Terminal 1 project marks a significant milestone for the airport, set to attract millions and strengthen San Diego's reputation as a dynamic bi-national hub. According to Becker, this investment is vital to creating an exceptional customer experience for the community and the world, with new boarding bridges central to the vision. Federal grants are currently essential to maintaining progress on this ambitious plan.