Federal funding given for taxiway upgrade
SPOKANE—Spokane International Airport has been awarded more than $18 million in federal funding for the design and reconstruction of Taxiway Alpha, a key pathway used by commercial and cargo planes on Sept. 12.
The funding comes from the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program, which is part of the Department of Transportation’s efforts to enhance airport infrastructure.
The reconstruction project will replace 2,000 feet of asphalt with concrete to improve the taxiway’s durability and strength for heavy aircraft. It will also upgrade the taxiway’s lighting system, switching from incandescent lights to more efficient LED lights. Additionally, new LED directional and guidance signs will be installed to help pilots navigate during taxiing, takeoff, and landing.
“We are grateful to Sen. Cantwell and all the legislators who continue to recognize the vital role local airports play in connecting communities and driving economic growth,” said Ezra Eckhardt, Spokane Airport Board Chair. “The reconstruction of Taxiway Alpha is another important step to ensure the airport meets the demands of our growing market.”
Construction will be carried out in two phases, with the project expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2025. The project is also estimated to create over 300 new jobs.
“Projects like this fuel construction-related job creation and spending in our community,” said Larry Krauter, Spokane Airports CEO. “We are proud to be working with Shamrock Paving, Inc. to deliver this important improvement.”
Spokane International Airport is the second-largest commercial airport in Washington and serves as a key transportation hub for the Inland Northwest. In 2023, the airport welcomed a record 4.1 million passengers and handled over 77,000 tons of cargo.
Clare is an Eastern Washington University graduate and a reporter at Free Press Publishing.
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