The Texarkana Regional Airport (TXK) will receive $16.7 million in funding for infrastructure improvements. The Arkansas Legislative Council signed off on the request Friday (Aug. 23).
The improvements will include the expansion of the runway and taxiways that will enable the airport to take on cargo and maintenance repair overhaul work. The improvements will also equip the airport to support larger aircraft, including the Boeing 777.
Funding for the project came in part from restricted reserve funds from the state and a federal appropriation bill that included the project through regular Congressional order.
“Texarkana is the town where I grew up and it’s been amazing to watch the entire region grow. Now that I’m Governor, I’m proud to support one of the city’s landmark projects, the Texarkana Regional Airport, and glad to help invite more jobs and visitors to the area,” said Gov. Sarah Sanders.
Additional funding was made possible by U.S. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Hot Springs, and U.S. Rep. Nathaniel Moran, R-Texas. Local sources are supporting more than $100 million in total improvements over the next three years.
“The infrastructure improvements enabled by these funds will create good paying jobs for the long-term,” said Paul Mehrlich, executive director of aviation for the Texarkana Regional Airport. “That will benefit not only Texarkana but the entire region.”
Mehrlich said the aerospace and defense industry in Camden, Arkansas, and the lithium industry near Magnolia, Arkansas, would benefit from the expansion efforts.
The Texarkana Regional Airport will also build approximately 175,000 square feet of hangar space for an estimated $35 million, which will be funded with bonds, and will open sites for future development.
“The Texarkana Regional Airport is positioned to become a major regional player in the national airspace system,” said Jerry Chism, Director of the Arkansas Division of Aeronautics. “TXK will support a growing need for air travel in the surrounding area. These improvements open the door to maintenance operations and the potential for additional airlines.”
In June 2024, Texarkana Regional Airport unveiled its new $49 million terminal, which is double the size of the previous terminal built in 1960. The 40,000-square-foot Jim E. Yates Terminal features jet bridges, an extra gate with space for expansion, and an upgraded baggage-handling system.