Austin-Bergstrom International Airport advanced its huge expansion project Friday, breaking ground on two concrete parallel midfield taxiways, a key component of its new concourse. Expected to be completed in 2027, the new taxiways are meant to streamline aircraft movement by connecting the runways, the Barbara Jordan Terminal, and the future Concourse B. The move will significantly boosting airport passenger and airline capacity, according to a city press release.
 
"The Midfield Taxiways project is a critical investment in our city's infrastructure, laying the groundwork for Austin-Bergstrom International Airport's future expansion,” said city manager T.C. Broadnax. 
 
The project is part of the airport’s multiyear expansion program, intended to enable the medium-sized airport to accommodate a growing Austin and Central Texas population. 
 
The Midfield Taxiways project brings the airport "one step closer to achieving a modern, larger and more comfortable airport for our community and business partners,” ABIA CEO Ghizlane Badawi said.

The project includes:

  • Construction of two miles of parallel taxiways, along with smaller connector taxiways to support Concourse B and future expansions.
  • Two bridges under the taxiways to improve connectivity for airfield support services.
  • Installation of airfield lighting, signage, and a new taxi route for low-visibility conditions.
  • Pavement recycling, building demolition, utility relocation, and drainage improvements.
  • Roadway modifications and construction of a new parking lot on the south side of the airport property.

The Austin City Council authorized $320 million for the construction of the taxiways with construction partners Austin Industries and a $26.7 million contract with RS&H for design work.

ABIA also secured $2.8 million in federal grant funding through the FY24 Federal Aviation Administration Airport Improvement Program and $14.25 million from the FY24 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law–Airport Terminal Program.

The airport expansion projects are funded with federal grants, airport revenue, and airport revenue bonds, with no funding from local taxes.