Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Idaho Falls Regional Airport Terminal Expansion

WASHINGTON-Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $12,000,000 infunding for Idaho Falls Regional Airport Terminal Expansion Project in Idaho Falls, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2025 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.

"As Idaho Falls continues to grow, it is essential that the airport grows with it," said Rep. Simpson. "Expanding the Idaho Falls Regional Airport will better serve the Idaho Falls community, support local jobs, and enhance the city's status as a top destination for travelers and economic opportunities. I have been a steadfast supporter of our local airports, and I am pleased that this funding will facilitate these necessary improvements."

"The Idaho Falls Regional Airport is foundational to Eastern Idaho's growing economy. This $12 million in Community Project Funding is critical as the airport strives to meet the increasing demand for air service. We are most grateful for Representative Simpson's support. This funding helps ensure that IDA will remain the regional airport of choice for Eastern Idaho," said Idaho Falls Mayor Rebecca Casper.

This funding would be used for Phase 1 of IDA's terminal expansion. Phase I of this project, baggage expansion, will provide necessary space for outbound baggage operations, as well as additional space for future operations. It will improve safety by providing adequate space to load baggage carts and improve the efficiency of operations with a new conveyor system. This expansion also provides additional ticket queueing and counter space to accommodate additional air service and will provide a second level space for future passenger hold areas. This phase will also provide alterations to existing space to allow for the future expansion of the security screening checkpoint which is the next constrained space in the terminal building.

Despite claims that CPF projects are "wasteful earmarks," Community Project Funding gives Members of Congress like Congressman Simpson the opportunity to bring Idaho tax dollars back home for Idaho priorities. These projects fill a clear and present need in communities across Idaho and enjoy broad community support. The federal dollars designated for CPF projects exist within existing budget limits. Rather than that money going to fund projects in different states, CPF projects give Idahoans a critical voice in determining where budgeted funding goes.

As Idaho's only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho's priorities and ensure Idahoans' hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.

The Idaho Falls Regional Airport Terminal Expansion Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2025 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.