Press Releases

Congressman Salud Carbajal (CA-24) visited the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport to see how $4,691,793 in support from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help upgrade and renovate the airport in the face of growing passenger numbers and rebounding air travel.

The funding will support the airport’s upcoming renovations of key runways and taxiways and the possible relocation of the air traffic control tower.

“As our airports have seen booming demand since the end of the pandemic, it is critical that they have the funding needed to keep our air travel operating smoothly and safely. In my role overseeing aviation on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I’m proud to have helped bring these critical investments to San Luis Obispo and other Central Coast airports,” said Rep. Carbajal. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is delivering key investments which are vital to the functioning of our communities. These Central Coast taxpayer dollars coming back to our region is just one of the many ways this landmark law is helping improve the day-to-day life of our Central Coast residents.”

“With this generous support from landmark legislation, the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport will be able to upgrade our taxiways which is crucial for managing our growing passenger numbers and most importantly ensure the safety of air transportation,” stated Courtney Johnson, Director of Airports. “These investments underscore the commitment to providing a seamless travel experience for our region and visitors alike. This funding isn’t just about infrastructure; it’s about enhancing connections and enriching the journey for all.” 

Since the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was signed at the end of 2021, Central Coast airports have received more than $19.5 million through the Federal Aviation Administration.

Rep. Carbajal recently noted a milestone of $500,000,000 in federal funding that has already been delivered by the landmark law for nearly 100 projects across the Central Coast to support upgrades to airports, transit systems, climate resilient initiatives, and high-speed broadband connectivity.

Congressman Carbajal is also working to support local aviation safety and consumer protections for Central Coast air travelers through his role on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

The House recently passed legislation backed by Carbajal that would boost funding for the local airports, as well as devote additional resources to environmental resilience projects and alternative aviation fuels.

The funding provided to San Luis Obispo Airport through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law comes in addition to more than $20 million in pandemic relief funds delivered through Carbajal’s work passing the CARES Act in 2020.