In a significant development for the Fullerton Municipal Airport, city officials have announced a $500,000 budget appropriation to fund the rehabilitation of the airport’s terminal building and control tower, facilitated by a grant from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This FAA Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) requires no matching funds, making it a vital resource for the city’s ongoing airport improvements.

The latest project follows a successful $600,000 rehabilitation completed in 2014, which notably enhanced lobby restroom accessibility, installed new windows, and upgraded flooring and painting throughout the facility. The upcoming improvements are set to refine the air traffic control tower with several key upgrades, including new window seals, plumbing enhancements, upgraded signage, and improved accessibility features in the bathrooms.

C&S Companies, Inc. has been selected for the project, having previously secured a five-year agreement in April 2020 to provide design and consulting services for various airport projects. They have proposed a design fee of $60,000, which has been deemed reasonable and eligible for grant reimbursement.

The project is set to commence with a design phase that will take approximately three months after receiving the Notice to Proceed. Following the design, construction is anticipated to begin in late 2025. Throughout this process, extensive coordination will be necessary to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and FAA approval.

The project’s scope emphasizes not only aesthetics but also functionality and safety, with plans for comprehensive upgrades to electrical panels, interior and exterior painting, and modifications to existing bathrooms to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.

Key phases will involve the consultant acting as a liaison with funding agencies and ensuring budget feasibility. Regular project updates will keep stakeholders informed every step of the way, as the city continues its commitment to enhancing the Fullerton Municipal Airport’s infrastructure and facilities for both travelers and staff. Fullerton has successfully obtained a significant $500,000 grant aimed at revitalizing its aviation infrastructure. The funding, awarded by the Department of Transportation, is earmarked for essential upgrades and repairs at the city’s airport, which plays a vital role in the region’s transportation network.

City officials expressed optimism about the grant, highlighting its potential to enhance safety and efficiency at the airport. “This funding will allow us to make crucial improvements that are long overdue,” said the city’s mayor. “Investing in our aviation infrastructure is not only vital for our local economy but also for the safety of our community.”

The grant will be utilized for a range of projects, including runway repairs, taxiway upgrades, and improved navigational aids. These enhancements are expected to support the growing demand for air travel while ensuring compliance with federal safety standards.

As Fullerton moves forward with these plans, officials are already looking at additional funding opportunities to further bolster the airport’s capabilities, reinforcing the city’s commitment to maintaining a robust transportation infrastructure.