Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders toured the Texarkana Regional Airport following the allocation of $16.7 million in funding for infrastructure improvements last August.
The investment aims to enhance the airport’s capabilities, attract economic growth, and support larger aircraft operations.
“It’s incredible to see the town I once called home take off,” Governor Sanders said. “The investment will improve the airport’s infrastructure and bring more jobs and visitors to the entire region.
This critical infrastructure investment is the type of economic development project we need to bring in new industry and grow this area.”
The funding will be used to expand the airport’s runway and taxiways, allowing it to accommodate larger aircraft, including the Boeing 777. The improvements also support cargo operations and maintenance repair overhaul work, which could further boost the airport’s role in regional transportation. Plans are underway to add 175,000 square feet of hangar space at an estimated cost of $35 million, creating additional opportunities for future development.
In the summer, the airport celebrated the opening of the Jim E. Yates Terminal, a $49 million facility that is twice the size of the original terminal built in 1960. The new terminal includes jet bridges, an extra gate with expansion space, and an upgraded baggage-handling system.
Airport officials have emphasized that these investments will strengthen Texarkana’s position as a transportation hub, increasing economic opportunities for the surrounding communities. The improvements are expected to attract more business activity and facilitate long-term growth for the region.