SLO County Airport receives $4.6 million grant for airport safety upgrades
SLO County Regional Airport.
Funding will support runway safety, taxiway, and wildlife projects
– The San Luis Obispo County Airport will receive $4,609,282 in federal funding for runway, taxiway, and wildlife safety projects, U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal announced.
The funding will modernize the safety system for Runway 11/29, upgrade Taxiway A, and support the development of a plan to identify wildlife around the airport. The plan will assess ways to protect aircraft from wildlife hazards, including bird strikes.
“As SLO County continues to welcome more visitors each year, it’s essential that we invest in our local airport to maintain the highest levels of safety for passengers and crew,” Carbajal said. “This $4.6 million federal investment will allow SLO County Airport to launch important infrastructure upgrades to enhance the overall travel experience.”
“We are deeply grateful to Congressman Carbajal and the U.S. Department of Transportation for this important investment, which will strengthen our airport, support our regional economy and help ensure San Luis Obispo County has the infrastructure needed to thrive for generations to come,” San Luis Obispo County 3rd District Supervisor Dawn Ortiz-Legg said.
“This significant federal investment in safe, reliable airport infrastructure is an investment in the long-term economic vitality, connectivity and resilience of our region, and we are grateful to Congressman Carbajal and the federal government for recognizing the importance of our airport to San Luis Obispo County’s future,” San Luis Obispo County Director of Airports Courtney Johnson said.
The funding comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Airport Infrastructure Grant program, which provides federal grants for projects involving runways, taxiways, signage, lighting, and markings.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has provided more than $1 billion for projects across California’s Central Coast since its passage in 2021. Carbajal helped craft and pass the legislation in partnership with the Biden administration as a senior member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
In May, Carbajal announced more than $2 million in federal funding for the San Luis Obispo County Airport to improve its baggage screening system.
Last fall, Carbajal announced more than $3 million for infrastructure improvements at two San Luis Obispo County airports. The San Luis Obispo County Airport received $2,725,597 to construct the new 315-foot Taxiway B3 and bring the airport into compliance with current standards.
Oceano Airport received $313,500 to reseal 2,325 feet of Runway 11/29 pavement and extend its useful life.
Carbajal represents California’s 24th Congressional District, which includes Santa Barbara County and portions of San Luis Obispo and Ventura counties.
