CHARLOTTE, N.C. — U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced a nearly $1 billion investment into America's airports during a visit to Charlotte on Thursday.
Buttigieg made the announcement at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. The investment, which will be distributed to 114 airports nationwide, will "modernize air travel and improve the passenger experience."
$27 million alone is being awarded to Charlotte Douglas.
“That money is going to replace 16 outdated jet bridges with upgraded models so your walk from your gate to your seat is more comfortable, you’re breathing filtered air,” Buttigieg said.
The Charlotte airport is ranked as the 7th busiest airport in the world. State officials present at the announcement said the expansion and enhancement projects are about building for the future.
“It’s a hub with so many direct flights, the fast-growing airport in the country,” said Governor Roy Cooper. “I go around the country a lot and people tell me just how much they just love to come through this airport.”
Those kinds of investments are ones that transportation, state, and local leaders said will improve the travel experience so travelers can fly with ease, help meet the growing demand, and make the airport more efficient.
“It’s helping Americans go about their days, wherever they are heading with less stress, fewer costs, and focus on what really matters and that is the people who are waiting for them when they land,” Buttigieg said.
Buttigieg previously visited the Charlotte airport in March 2023 to learn about the airport's new air traffic control tower and runway construction.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was signed into law in November of 2021. The deal, which was promoted at the time as an example of what bipartisanship can achieve, secured a trillion dollars for the nation's infrastructure.
In addition to rain and air travel, officials said at the time North Carolina roads and highways are set to receive about $7.2 billion over the next five years.
Over two years since the infrastructure deal was reached, money is still being allocated to projects.
Contact Jesse Pierre at jpierrepet@wcnc.com or follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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