Washington, D.C.—Bipartisan efforts were led by Congressman Steve Buyer (IN-04) and late Congresswoman Julia Carson in laying the ground work for the new airport terminal that opens on Tuesday.  Congressman Buyer and Congresswoman Carson led Congressional efforts to gain the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) full support for the proposed new terminal. 

“Indiana is known to be the crossroads of America and now Indianapolis will serve as the gateway to transportation for business, leisure, and commerce.   Indianapolis is designated as the ‘Amateur Sports Capitol of the World,’ boasting first class sports venues, lodging, and now transportation by air.  This new terminal will continue to build the city of Indianapolis and the surrounding communities,” commented Buyer.  “Indianapolis is a growing first class city and has the edge to compete with the other leading metropolitan areas with the new Lucas Oil Stadium and the expanded convention center.”

In 2001, Congressman Buyer and Congresswoman Carson were joined by the Indiana Delegation letter supporting the letter of intent from the Federal Aviation Administration regarding the construction of the new terminal at the Indianapolis International Airport. The new terminal is named the Col. H. Weir Cook Terminal Building.

The letter of intent was crucial at the early stages of planning the new Midfield Terminal Complex, securing the needed funding to move the plans forward.  Building the new Midfield Terminal Complex would also reduce aircraft taxiing time by an estimated 34 percent and would bring significant reductions in both air emissions and aircraft noise exposure.  Together, the benefits of the new terminal are estimated to be $135 million in present value through 2026-this includes reduction in aircraft taxiing time, aircraft delay, and passenger travel time.

Congressman Buyer will attend the dedication ceremony of the Col. H. Weir Cook Terminal Building on Tuesday, November 11.  Attached is the Indiana delegation letter that was sent to the Federal Aviation Administration in July 2001.

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