In Missoula, Tester Celebrates Dedication of New Airport Terminal Funded by ARPA, COVID Relief Packages

Tester joined by Airport Board Chair Adriane Beck, Deputy Associate Administrator for Airports Winsome A. Lenfert, and Airport Director Brian Ellestad

U.S. Senator Jon Tester today celebrated the dedication of the Missoula Montana Airport’s (MSO’s) newest terminal, with funding for the project secured through his American Rescue Plan and other federal resources.

“As someone who flies in and out of Montana airports every week, I know firsthand how critical it is that you all have the resources and infrastructure to handle the increasing travel demands of Montanans,” said Tester. “This terminal expansion will create new good paying jobs in Missoula, will allow folks in Western Montana to stay connected with the world, and will boost our already booming $7.1 billion outdoor economy. I’m proud to have worked with you and with my colleagues in the Senate to pass the American Rescue Plan, and additional pandemic relief packages, that helped to make this expansion possible.”

MSO’s Terminal Expansion is a multi-year, multi-phase modernization project. Boasting additional concourse space, seating, concessions, and improved Wi-Fi, the upgrade will increase airport capacity and bolster Missoula’s tourism economy. This critical project will not impact local taxes, and funding comes from the Federal Aviation Administration, the State of Montana, and local funding, as well as roughly $5.37 million in ARPA funds in debt reduction. Senator Tester was the only member of the Montana delegation to vote for the American Rescue Plan which was passed into law March of last year.

Additionally, millions in funds from the Tester supported Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the fourth coronavirus relief package will be used to cover operating expenses, freeing up resources to continue necessary work during the pandemic.

MSO will also receive more than $17 million over five years from Tester’s recently signed bipartisan infrastructure law to continue its multi-phase modernization project. Tester secured approximately $144 million for 69 Montana airports through his bipartisan infrastructure law, which will be awarded over five years through the FAA’s Airport Improvement Grants, which can be used to construct or repair runways and taxiways as well as make terminal and gate improvements. Tester was the only member of Montana’s congressional delegation to vote for the legislation.

A full list of Montana provisions in Tester’s bipartisan infrastructure law can be found HERE.