Wayne County’s Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) has more than double the delays and cancellations of any other airport in the United States. Why? Tunnels leading to the McNamara Terminal regularly flood, cutting off access to the airport.
Now DTW will receive $61.8 million in federal funds to repair a portion of Dingell Drive, the main road artery serving the McNamara Terminal, as well as sections of the adjacent service road. The grant is funded through the Biden-Harris Infrastructure Law and will enhance airport infrastructure to improve safety and increase efficiency.
“I’m grateful to the Biden administration for securing vital funding for transportation and airports nationwide, including Michigan and Wayne County. Bringing federal dollars back to our district is and has always been a top priority for my office,” said U.S. Congressman Shri Thanedar. “This $62 million grant for DTW will rehabilitate an existing on-airport roadway, providing a path for aircraft rescue firefighting trucks, airport vehicles, and ground service equipment. These changes will undoubtedly make a sizable and immediate impact on the safety and efficiency of our local airport.”
Roadway improvements at DTW will include replacing storm sewer sections, concrete curbs, median walls, overhead signage, and roadway light poles. The three tunnels running under the airport’s crosswind runways and associated taxiways will be completely renovated, including an overhaul of their mechanical and electrical systems.
“With these investments, we are ensuring that our airports remain state-of-the-art facilities that support Michiganders and travelers for generations to come,” said Zachary Kolodin, chief infrastructure officer and director of the Michigan Infrastructure Office. “This commitment to infrastructure will bolster our economy, enhance connectivity, and pave the way for a brighter future for all.”
This multi-year project will create jobs across numerous fields, including construction and engineering.
The Biden-Harris infrastructure packages are already investing more than $10.8 billion in Michigan to improve roads and bridges, water systems, transit, and high-speed internet access. Funding airport improvements fuels economic growth regionally, nationally, and internationally.
Three Key Facts:
- Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) will receive $61.8 million in federal funds from the Biden-Harris Infrastructure Law to repair Dingell Drive and adjacent service roads, improving safety and efficiency.
- The funding will address frequent flooding in tunnels leading to the McNamara Terminal, which has contributed to DTW having the highest delays and cancellations of any U.S. airport.
- Roadway improvements will include overhauling tunnels, storm sewers, and mechanical systems, with the project creating jobs in construction and engineering and supporting Michigan’s economy.
