The federal government this week provided a multimillion-dollar boost to Pittsburgh International Airport’s new terminal program.

Members of Pennsylvania’s federal delegation announced that the airport is receiving a $5.3 million grant for construction of PIT’s new terminal. The grant comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Airport Terminal Program, created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law signed by President Joe Biden in 2021. This program provides grants for terminal development projects that modernize and transform aging infrastructure.

“We’re thankful to our federal partners who understand the positive impact this funding will have on the regional economy and the importance of investing in the next generation of Western Pennsylvania’s infrastructure,” said Vince Gastgeb, Chief Government and Corporate Affairs Officer for the Allegheny County Airport Authority.

“The Airport Authority is extremely proud of the progress we’ve made on the new terminal for Pittsburgh International Airport – and the thousands of jobs it supports – and this funding will help us deliver the new front door to the region that is emblematic of our thriving community today.”

Last year, PIT received $3.5 million toward the new terminal, a grant from federal leaders that followed the $20 million federal officials announced for the new terminal in 2021.

“This $5.3 million investment from the Airport Terminal Program will help make the new landside terminal building at Pittsburgh International Airport a reality—improving customer service and boosting our local economy,” said U.S. Rep. Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17).

PIT’s new terminal construction is creating over 14,000 direct and indirect jobs and generating $2.5 billion in economic impact for the region.

The interior progress of the departures level of PIT’s new terminal on Feb. 2, 2024. (Photo by Beth Hollerich)

Building a smarter airport

The new terminal was designed with the passenger experience in mind, prioritizing modern, efficient infrastructure. The new airport will employ state-of-the-art technology and an innovative design intended to make the airport experience easier for travelers. A rolling roof design, prominent tree columns and outdoor terraces will bring the Western Pennsylvania’s natural beauty to the airport.

Due to a new baggage claim system, passengers will receive their luggage quicker than ever before. Since the new terminal will eliminate the necessity of the existing trains that connect both terminals, airport visitors can also expect reduced walking distances and wait times, thanks to added security lanes.

“As Pittsburgh International Airport continues to grow, improving the passenger experience is critical,” said U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-Pa.). “This funding not only gets passengers where they’re going faster but helps secure PIT’s role as a gateway to Southwestern Pennsylvania’s future economic success.”

The new terminal aims to help make travelers’ lives easier, but the construction also supports local organizations and workers. Since the project’s conception, it is an airport for the people of Pittsburgh and built by them too. The new airport is creating economic opportunities throughout the region and open doors for a new generation of Pittsburghers.