$28 Million in Improvement Grants for Orlando, Kissimmee Airports

Central Florida Congressman Darren Soto announced that Orlando International Airport and Kissimmee Gateway Airport received $28 million in FY24 Airport Improvement Program grants from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration. The federal funds will be used to rehabilitate existing taxiways, maintain the structural integrity of the pavement, and extend their use.

"We are proud to see our airports in Florida's Ninth District receive key federal funds to improve taxiways and ensure they can safely operate for years to come," said Rep. Soto.

According to the Democratic Congressman, Orlando International Airport received $17,844,568 to rehabilitate 10,000 feet of the existing paved Taxiway H, rehabilitate 5,000 feet of existing lighting on Taxiway H, rehabilitate 10,000 feet of the existing paved Taxiway G, and rehabilitate 5,000 feet of existing lighting on Taxiway G.

The funds for Orlando International Airport announced form part of over $300 million in federal investments to build a new Terminal C, add gates, enhance runways, and build a pedestrian bridge.

Kissimmee Gateway Airport received $10,290,661 to rehabilitate 3,200 feet of the existing paved Taxiway D. "Thanks to the Infrastructure Law and other major investments made by House Democrats and the Biden-Harris Administration in the 117th Congress, we've had the opportunity to expand our world-class airport at MCO with a new terminal to accommodate increased travel, new gates, and a pedestrian bridge," Rep. Darren Soto continued. "We've also seen Kissimmee Gateway Airport receive millions of dollars to fully upgrade its air traffic control tower to ensure safety for travelers and personnel. Our office will continue working with federal, state, and local partners to secure funds needed to keep Central Florida moving forward."

"This funding is instrumental to continue crucial infrastructure improvements at Orlando International Airport, which welcomed nearly 58 million visitors to Central Florida last year," said Kevin Thibault, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. "The support from our local and federal partners, such as Congressman Soto, not only enhances our facilities and drives innovation, it also significantly benefits travelers by improving their experience and providing seamless connectivity."

"The City of Kissimmee is extremely grateful for Congressman Soto's efforts to assist us in receiving the funds necessary to provide these improvements," said City of Kissimmee Mayor Olga Gonzalez. "The taxiway pavement and lighting project will ensure continued safety for our pilots and the funds for the air traffic control tower ensures safety and efficiency for both ground and airspace operations. It is very appreciated when the airport can inject $11M into our local economy with projects of this nature."

Thanks to the Infrastructure Law, Kissimmee Gateway Airport also received $1.4 million from the FAA to upgrade its air traffic control tower.