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Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) proudly announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will award $5 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law which Congresswoman Escobar voted for on November 5, 2021 and was signed into law by President Biden on November 15, 2021, to the El Paso International Airport (ELP). This funding will be used for energy-efficient lighting and ceiling panel replacement, new passenger seating to provide device power, and newly designed seating spaces to accommodate more travelers and improve Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) access. 

“I’m thrilled the El Paso International Airport is receiving Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding championed by Congressional Democrats,” said Congresswoman Escobar. “As the only federal representative for our region who advocated and voted for this funding bill, it remains my priority that these investments return to our community. By continuing to modernize the facility, invest in technology and infrastructure that puts El Paso International Airport at the forefront of the fight against climate change, and increase accessibility standards for all travelers, we are rising to meet the needs of passengers arriving and departing from our community and ensuring El Paso remains a reliable gateway to our region.” 

“Americans deserve modern airports that meet the needs of their families and growing passenger demand. Funded through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, today’s grants will improve airport terminals while also creating good jobs in communities across the country,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. 

“We want to thank Congresswoman Escobar for her ongoing support of bringing federal investment to our community. Our advanced planning and preparation enabled us to propose important projects that were ready for federal grant opportunities such as this one. Our team is focused on anticipating the needs of tomorrow thereby helping us bring federal dollars to our community today,” said City Manager Tommy Gonzalez

”As a result of this investment, we expect to save at least 20% of Terminal lighting energy costs, furthering our sustainability efforts to be both environmentally and fiscally responsible.  It will also improve the passenger experience by enhancing accessibility and modernizing our terminal. The implementation of our strategic plan prepared us for this opportunity and we are excited to be a first-round grant recipient, ” said Sam Rodriguez, El Paso International Airport Director of Aviation.

Today’s funding is from the Airport Terminal Program, one of three aviation programs created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The law provides $1 billion annually for five years for Airport Terminal grants. Building better airport terminals will improve customer experiences, move goods through the economy more efficiently to lower prices, and enhance U.S. competitiveness.