DES MOINES, Iowa — The Federal Aviation Administration is giving the Des Moines International Airport (DSM) $2.2 million for construction as part of its Airport Terminals Program.
The terminal program was made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which has allocated $1 billion in grants annually to airports across the country since 2022.
A new terminal is coming to the capital city's airport, adding a check-in lobby, baggage claim and "meeter greeter" area to its first floor. All security checkpoints, departure gates and concession spaces will be on the terminal's second floor.
The new build will also have sleeker, more modern design style than the current DSM terminal, and improved technology to better serve passengers.
An airport spokesperson told Local 5 via email:
"We are thrilled to receive this federal grant for $2.2 million which will aid in the transformation of travel at the Des Moines International Airport. The funds will be used towards the cost of the new terminal, which will create enhanced accessibility and operational efficiencies, positioning DSM for growth and better connectivity. We are grateful for the invaluable support from our federal partners."
Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley, who supported the bill back in 2021, shared a statement on the funding.
"The Des Moines International Airport, being the largest airport in Iowa, is critical both for passenger travel, and for moving our products to market,” he said. “I backed the bipartisan infrastructure law with Iowa’s future in mind and recognizing the need to set the wheels in motion on important projects like this one. I’m glad our airports continue to see a return on that investment."
Back in November 2023, nearly 80% of Polk County voters approved a $350 million bond referendum for the same project.
The estimated $445 million project is expected to be completed by 2026.