Victoria Airport Secures $1.7 Million FAA Grant for Tower Upgrade

The Victoria Regional Airport has received crucial approval for a final grant from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), allowing the airport to advance its air traffic control tower rehabilitation project. This grant, totaling $1.7 million, will fully fund a significant portion of the rehabilitation efforts.

During a recent meeting of the Victoria County Commissioners Court, Airport Director Lenny Llerena announced that the airport has now secured all FAA grants related to this project. The approval has been eagerly anticipated, and Llerena expressed relief, stating, “This is the grant that we’ve been waiting for. We will start drawing down and we will start reimbursing whatever the county has already paid for the design.”

While the $1.7 million grant is a major step forward, Llerena highlighted that an additional $544,000 will follow, funded through another FAA grant, which the county will contribute 5% of the total. This funding will complement the existing grant, demonstrating a collaborative effort to enhance airport facilities.

Contract Awarded for Rehabilitation Project

In previous meetings, the Victoria County Commission approved the contract for the entire scope of the Air Traffic Control Tower Rehabilitation project to Lauger Construction, a local contractor with expertise in significant building projects throughout Victoria and surrounding areas. The total contract value is approximately $1,840,915.

Planned improvements to the air traffic control tower include the addition of a women’s restroom, installation of central heating and air conditioning, replacement of windows, and other necessary upgrades. These enhancements are part of a broader initiative to modernize the airport’s facilities, ensuring they meet contemporary standards.

While a construction start date has yet to be announced, the FAA grant agreement emphasizes the importance of completing the project within a specified timeframe. According to the agreement, the rehabilitation must be completed without undue delay and within four years from the grant execution date.

The FAA will monitor progress closely to ensure proper management of these federal funds. The agency has indicated that failure to make regular draw requests could lead to the grant being placed in “inactive” status, potentially impacting future funding opportunities.

Llerena’s updates reflect a commitment to improving airport infrastructure, which is vital for regional connectivity and economic growth. As the Victoria Regional Airport moves forward with this project, it aims to provide enhanced services and facilities for travelers and air traffic control personnel alike.