The new terminal will contribute to positive economic development in Texarkana and will benefit the entire Ark-La-Tex region. It is a crucial investment in Texarkana Regional Airport’s infrastructure and comprehensive goal to provide an overall better airport experience for our passengers.”
TEXARKANA REGIONAL AIRPORT
The Texarkana Regional Airport Authority recently broke ground on a new 40,000 square-foot passenger terminal at a cost of $36 million. The existing passenger terminal was constructed in 1960 and was last renovated in 1992. Over time, aviation travel has increased and prompted the need for a larger facility to meet the travel demand of the flying public. With expansion in progress, a more modern and appealing facility for passengers will be brought to life. The location of the new passenger terminal will be across the airfield from the existing facility and adjacent to the airport’s Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Station. This location allows for a more streamlined entryway and direct access to Interstate 49. Amenities will include room for concessions, expansion opportunities for more airlines/destinations, and opportunities for facility growth. The new passenger terminal will also contain two enclosed passenger boarding bridges, something the airport has never had. In addition to an updated modern look, the aesthetics of the new passenger terminal were designed to complement the natural state of its location by showcasing many timber finishes and giving the public a relaxing experience. While the COVID-19 pandemic presented some unprecedented challenges for the airport, passenger travel has returned with a boom for the airport in 2021, recovering around 92% of its pre-pandemic levels. Enplanements in 2019 hit record highs, and airport management is encouraged to see high airport utilization from the Texarkana community. Moving forward with the new terminal shows the airport is committed to providing first-class service for our leisure and business community as they continue to support the airport. Economic growth of the surrounding area has continued to increase substantially over the past decade, and the Texarkana Regional Airport Authority has committed the airport’s agenda to expanding its operation to keep up with demand. By having state-of-the-art facilities that can expand in the future, the Texarkana Regional Airport Authority is confident airport users will increase, and more businesses will be drawn to the area who trust in the airport to meet their needs and help them succeed. The terminal project is being funded by federal grants, the cities of Texarkana, Arkansas and Texarkana, Texas, the Texas Department of Transportation, Arkansas Department of Aeronautics, and passenger facility charges. Construction is projected to be completed in the Spring of 2024.
Paul Mehrlich, Executive Director, Texarkana Regional Airport
24 | Texarkana Community Directory | Fall 2021
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