The funds will be used on the first phase of the estimated $150 million project slated for completion in three years. Design of the project is currently underway, and construction of the terminal building could start as early as next spring, according to Victor White, City of Wichita Director of Airports.

The grant application from the City of Wichita survived a competitive process within the U.S. Department of Transportation, White said. The airport also received a second FAA grant for more than $7.5 million last week that will be used for engineering design work on the new terminal project. The process was aided by a joint letter of support signed by Sens. Pat Roberts and Sam Brownback, along with 4th District Congressman Todd Tiahrt, First District Congressman Jerry Moran and 2nd District Congresswoman Nancy Boyda.

“This grant is great news for the Wichita area, and for the entire state of Kansas,” Brownback said. The Wichita Mid-Continent Airport over the next several years is undergoing an expansion process that will greatly benefit travelers across the state.”

Congressman Tiahrt echoed the praise for the new project.

“Mid-Continent Airport’s new passenger terminal will help make people feel more comfortable and welcome when traveling to Wichita,” Tiahrt said. “This will help increase tourism and business opportunities for our community. I strongly support federal funding for this project that will benefit travelers and the general aviation community by providing expanded space.”

The $150 million cost of the new terminal will be paid with a combination of federal funds from the U.S. Department of Transportation and Transportation Securities Administration, airport users fees, airline rentals and other airport revenues. No local tax dollars will be used on the project, White said.

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