Carbajal Announces $4.6 Million in New Federal Funding for SLO Airport

Washington, August 18, 2026
 U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24), a senior member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, announced $4,609,282.00 in new federal funding for the San Luis Obispo County Airport for a range of infrastructure upgrades. Specifically, the funding will go towards modernizing Runway 11/29’s safety system, upgrading Taxiway A, and creating a plan to identify wildlife around the airport and assess how to protect aircraft from potential wildlife hazards, such as bird strikes.

“As SLO County continues to welcome more visitors each year, it’s essential that we invest in our local airport to maintain the highest levels of safety for passengers and crew,” said Rep. Carbajal. This $4.6 million federal investment will allow SLO County Airport to launch important infrastructure upgrades to enhance the overall travel experience.”

“We are deeply grateful to Congressman Carbajal and the U.S. Department of Transportation for this important investment, which will strengthen our airport, support our regional economy and help ensure San Luis Obispo County has the infrastructure needed to thrive for generations to come,” said San Luis Obispo County 3rd District Supervisor Dawn Ortiz-Legg.

“This significant federal investment in safe, reliable airport infrastructure is an investment in the long-term economic vitality, connectivity and resilience of our region, and we are grateful to Congressman Carbajal and the federal government for recognizing the importance of our airport to San Luis Obispo County’s future,” said Courtney Johnson, San Luis Obispo County Director of Airports.

This funding is from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) program, which provides federal grants for airport infrastructure projects such as runways, taxiways, signage, lighting, and markings.

Since its passage in 2021, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has delivered more than $1 billion in funding to projects up and down the Central Coast of California. As a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Carbajal played a key role in crafting and passing the landmark legislation in partnership with the Biden Administration.

In May 2026, Carbajal announced over $2 million in federal funding for the San Luis Obispo County Airport to improve the baggage screening system.

Last fall, Carbajal announced over $3 million in funding for two airports in San Luis Obispo County for infrastructure improvements. SLO County Airport received $2,725,597 to construct a new 315-foot Taxiway B3 to bring the airport into conformity with current standards. Oceano Airport received $313,500 to reseal 2,325 feet of existing Runway 11/29 pavement to extend its useful life.