PIT Lands Second Federal Infrastructure Grant

Pittsburgh International Airport’s new terminal program got a boost last week when federal officials announced a $3.5 million grant.

This year’s grant from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—signed by President Joe Biden in 2021—ups the federal commitment to the Terminal Modernization Program to a total of $23.5 million over two years. Last year, federal officials announced $20 million for the new terminal.

“We appreciate the administration’s commitment to improving transportation and are pleased that our Terminal Modernization Program, a brand new terminal and a project that is being built from the ground up, was again selected for federal infrastructure funding,” said Allegheny County Airport Authority CEO Christina Cassotis.

“This is possible due to the ongoing support of our federal officials, and we thank them for their continued partnership.”

Officials are awaiting further guidance on exactly how the money can be used, but it will go toward the airport’s $1.4 billion project already underway.

The vast majority of the funding for the project comes from airlines operating at the airport, through airline rates and charges, as well as from other airport revenue including parking, terminal concessions, and natural gas operations. No local tax dollars are being used to fund the project.

“Investing in our local community means providing people with easy access in and out of Western PA,” said U.S. Rep. Chris Deluzio (D-17). “As the Pittsburgh area continues to develop, Pittsburgh International Airport plays a pivotal role in assisting our region’s growth. Modernizing and improving our new terminal today means creating strong connections between Western PA and cities across both the nation and the globe tomorrow.”

Upon completion, PIT’s new terminal will drastically reduce walking distances for travelers and add security lanes to reduce wait times. Outdoor terraces will showcase the beauty of the local environment, interior spaces will allow for easy and efficient passenger flow, and dining and shopping space will be expanded. The terminal will also feature artwork by local artists both inside and outside.

While the new terminal’s design will benefit the traveling public, its construction is supporting local businesses and workers. Dozens of contracts worth more than $1 billion in total have been awarded with more than 80 percent going to local companies.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides $5 billion for airport development across the country through the Airport Terminals Program with about 40 percent of that total allocated so far.