FAA Announces Nearly $1 Billion for Airport Terminal Modernization Projects
TUL to receive additional $13 million to help replace existing air traffic control tower.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TULSA, Oklahoma – October 24, 2024 – Today, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced nearly $1 billion in funding across 125 airports in 46 states, Guam, and Palau. Historically, the FAA has invested in runways, air traffic control towers, and back-of-house infrastructure. The Biden-Harris administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law introduced a new program aimed at enhancing the passenger experience, improving accessibility for passengers with disabilities, and supporting sustainability—all while creating good-paying construction jobs.
Today’s announcement includes funding for new baggage systems, larger security checkpoints, increased gate capacity, and the modernization of aging infrastructure throughout terminals and ground transportation.
Tulsa International Airport will receive $13 million to replace its existing FAA-operated air traffic control tower complex, improving visibility and enhancing ADA access. This funding is in addition to the $12.5 million previously awarded to the Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust from the FAA’s FY24 Airport Terminal Program (ATP) funding.
“The Airport Terminal Program grant application process is competitive, with limited funding available. Many airports across the country, similar in size to TUL, have aging terminals and towers. We are beyond grateful to receive these additional funds for our essential new air traffic control tower project,” said Alexis Higgins, CEO of the Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust.
Senator James M. Inhofe Air Traffic Control Tower Complex Project Details:
TUL’s existing air traffic control tower was commissioned in 1958, making it one of the oldest towers in the country. The facility’s maintenance needs are growing exponentially and must be addressed to preserve the safety, security, and continuity of the state’s air transportation system. The new facility will provide the reliable infrastructure necessary for the safe operation of air traffic and will allow for an expansion of services beyond existing capabilities. Construction for the project began in September, and is on track to be completed in 2026. The new FAA Air Traffic Control Tower Complex will be named after Senator James Mountain Inhofe since Senator Inhofe was instrumental in securing a $40 million federal appropriation for the project.
Estimated Project Costs: $110 million
- Engineering Design: $4,615,402
- Construction and Project Administration: $81,514,000
- FAA Equipment and Services: $24,483,198
- Total Projected Cost: $110,612,600
Grant Funding Sources:
- Tulsa County: $7,000,000
- City of Tulsa: $7,000,000*
- State of Oklahoma: $19,600,000
- Federal Appropriation: $40,000,000
- FAA Bipartisan Infrastructure ATP (FY24): $12,500,000
- FAA Bipartisan Infrastructure ATP (FY25): $13,000,000
- Total Grant Funds: $99,100,000
- Funding Gap (TAIT): $11,512,600
*This project is supported in whole or in part by federal award number SLT 1498 awarded to the City of Tulsa by the United States Department of the Treasury.
Timeline:
- Construction: September 2024 – May 2026
- Commissioning: May 2026 – December 2026
- Acceptance and Operational Start: December 2026
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