The Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) has received nearly $13 million in federal grant funding from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to support a multi-phase terminal expansion project underway at DRO.
Grant funding distributed to airports across the state of Colorado is made available through the Airport Improvement Program and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, as well as discretionary supplemental grant funding secured for the state by Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper.
“These grant funds represent the final piece of funding needed to execute Phase 1B of our Terminal Expansion Project,” Durango-La Plata County Airport Aviation Director Tony Vicari said. “This $13 million federal investment in south west Colorado will make a tremendous impact in the expansion and modernization of one of the largest economic engines in our region and a critical transportation hub for our community.”
Phase 1B of the terminal expansion project will expand the existing terminal by 19,728 square feet and renovate another 19,000 square feet of existing space. The project will add two new airline gates and passenger hold rooms, a new and expanded TSA passenger screening checkpoint, new food and beverage concession areas, and a new and expanded baggage claim area. The expansion will facilitate the efficient movement of passengers and baggage to bring the airport into conformity with modern airport design standards.
“Colorado’s regional and municipal airports help connect communities across our state and support local economic development,” said Bennet. “These dollars will help them invest in safety and capacity upgrades to meet Colorado’s changing needs.”
“Colorado’s airports connect rural communities and power local economies,” said Hickenlooper. “Our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is still delivering improvements to make air travel safe and accessible for all Coloradans.”
Groundbreaking for Phase 1B of the Terminal Expansion Project is scheduled for Oct. 2.
