Nearly $1 billion in grants will expand capacity at the nation’s airport terminals, increase energy efficiency, promote competition, and provide greater accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Building better airport terminals will improve customer experiences, move goods through the economy more efficiently to lower prices, and enhance U.S. competitiveness.
“Michigan’s airports are critical to the state’s economy and support $22 billion in economic development across the state,” Whitmer said. "These three federal grants, totaling $63 million in funding, will improve the customer experience at Michigan’s major airports, help small businesses transport goods, and enhance domestic competitiveness."
Appropriated by the Michigan Legislature at a future date, this funding will go through the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the Michigan Aeronautics Commission (MAC) to the following airports:
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) will receive $49.6 million in funding that will allow for the replacement of the passenger boarding bridges that improve energy efficiency and enhance accessibility for individuals with access and functional needs. Existing public restrooms throughout the airport will be updated to enhance accessibility for individuals with access and functional needs. The restroom upgrades also will include the addition of gender inclusive restrooms. All restroom fixtures will be replaced with energy efficient fixtures. In addition, new baggage claim belts will be installed to improve the baggage handling system and improve energy efficiency.
- As part of the ongoing terminal gate expansion project at Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) in Grand Rapids, $8.7 million in funding will be used to install eight new passenger boarding bridges. The new boarding bridges will provide enhanced accessibility for all passengers by eliminating the need for ground-level loading. These bridges will also enhance energy efficiency with pre-conditioned air and auxiliary power.
- Bishop International Airport (FNT) in Flint will receive $3.5 million in funding to replace the existing terminal roof, which has reached the end of its useful life and will be replaced with energy efficient materials, including improved insulation. The new roof will decrease heating and cooling needs and in turn, reduce energy consumption.
