Congressman Gonzalez Announces Over $3.8 Million for Longest Runway South of Austin at Harlingen Valley International Airport

HARLINGEN, TEXAS – Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) announced $3,828,739 in federal funding for the City of Harlingen from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This award comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Airport Infrastructure Grants (AIG) program and will support the fourth and final phase of the Valley International Airport improvement projects. Specifically, the grant will support the extension of Runway 35L by an additional 1,100 feet to accommodate more traffic. This would make it the longest runway south of Austin, Texas.  

“I was proud to support the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law which has provided millions to upgrade South Texas’s infrastructure, including roads, water systems, broadband, and airports,” said Congressman Gonzalez. “This significant investment for Valley International will enhance our ability to meet current and future demands of our transportation hubs.” 

“Americans are flying in record numbers this summer, and the Biden-Harris Administration is continuing to invest in our nation’s airports to make travel more convenient for passengers,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “The funding we’re announcing, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will help airports across the country make needed improvements to ensure safety and efficiency now and for years to come.” 

“Improved infrastructure at Valley International Airport means more opportunities for business growth, increased tourism, and enhanced connectivity for the entire Rio Grande Valley,” said Norma Sepulveda, Mayor of the City of Harlingen. “We are deeply appreciative of Congressman Gonzalez's unwavering support and dedication to our community's progress and prosperity." 

"We are extremely grateful to Congressman Gonzalez and the FAA for their continued support and this generous award,” said Marv Esterly, Aviation Director for Valley International Airport. “The $3,828,739 funding for the final phase of our runway extension project is a critical investment in the future of Valley International Airport. This project will enhance our capacity, improve safety, and ensure that we can continue to serve the growing needs of the Rio Grande Valley. We are committed to making Valley International Airport a modern, efficient, and accessible hub for our community." 

Valley International Airport is one of the 245 airports across 39 states that will receive funding to modernize and improve their infrastructure. To date, Valley International has received $15.9M in infrastructure improvement grants through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. For more information on the DOT’s grant process and investment programs, visit www.transportation.gov.  

For additional funding opportunities and updates, sign up to receive Congressman Gonzalez’s Grant Newsletter here. 

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