STATEHOUSE — The Fort Wayne International Airport can take off with their plans to make much-needed improvements and expand its east terminal with the help of $5 million in newly approved state funding, according to area lawmakers.

State Reps. Martin Carbaugh R-Fort Wayne; Dave Heine R-Fort Wayne; Chris Judy, R-Fort Wayne; and Bob Morris, R-Fort Wayne, voted in support of the airport funding during the 2023 legislative session, and the State Budget Committee formally approved releasing the funds Aug. 4 along with funding for many other projects across the state.

“Fort Wayne is already recognized as one of the best places to live and our local airport adds to this distinction,” Carbaugh said in the announcement. “The additional funding approved today will go a long way in improving the airport and ensuring we remain connected to so many destinations right from our backyard.”

The airport recently broke ground on the $70 million terminal renovations in June. The airport at that time announced that in addition to the renovation and expansion, the project also includes relocating all airline gates and passenger boarding bridges to the second level, expansion of the TSA security checkpoint area to meet updated TSA guidelines; relocating the airport restaurant to the second level and creating a new frequent flyer lounge. Work will also include new and improved public areas including additional restrooms, new meeter and greeter space, expanded circulation areas and vertical transportation. Work will also be done to update the existing 30-year-old baggage claim devices and rental car areas.

“By addressing these issues, we can improve the features, services and safety of the Fort Wayne airport,” Heine said. “Having an international airport in our area is a tremendous economic asset. From creating jobs to attracting new businesses, this valuable transportation link has positively impacted our area and will continue to be part of its growth for years to come.”

“The Fort Wayne airport renovations are something that Allen County legislators have worked hard on getting into the budget for a few years,” Judy said. “From infrastructure updates to security upgrades, we want these improvements to help our airport better serve area residents and visitors alike.”

According to INDOT, construction on the project will start this summer and will take around 24 months to complete. The project is made possible through a combination of federal, local, state and private funding.

“I look forward to seeing the results of these necessary updates needed to the east terminal and it’s great to know that construction is already underway,” Morris said. “Our goal is to ensure the Fort Wayne airport continues to add value for our residents and operators alike.”

Morris said the airport recently completed its expansion and renovation of the west terminal, which began in 2021.

Visit in.gov/sba/budget-committee for more information about the list of projects approved by the State Budget Committee, as well as view agendas and archived meetings. Visit iga.in.gov to learn more about House Enrolled Act 1001, Indiana’s new two-year state budget.