For Planning Purposes:
August 4, 2010
August 4, 2010
Contact: (202) 225-4761
Eric Wortman, Communications Director
Eric Wortman, Communications Director
Congressman Salazar joins Pueblo Community to welcome Allegiant Airlines
Culmination of Salazar’s nearly year-long effort to bring carrier to Pueblo
WASHINGTON, DC –Today, U.S. Congressman John Salazar joined the Pueblo Community to welcome the new Allegiant Airlines Service to Pueblo, Colorado. Today’s announcement marked the culmination of the nearly year-long effort for Salazar to bring Allegiant service, and the economic development opportunities it creates, to Pueblo.
“When Dave Cardinal and the Pueblo Airport Advisory Board came to me in January for help with TSA and Homeland Security, I thought this was a great opportunity for Pueblo and I can hardly believe what we have accomplished working together in a little under a year. This is a great day for the community and for all of those who care about the economy of Southern Colorado.”
“Allegiant’s service may allow Pueblo Memorial Airport to exceed the 10,000 passenger threshold, allowing the airport to qualify for more Airport Improvement funds, which are so critical to our regional Colorado airports,” added Salazar.
Speaking at today’s announcement, Dave Cardinal of the Pueblo Airport Advisory Board said, “We would not be here today without the hard work and help of our 3rd Congressional District representative, Congressman John Salazar."
Timeline of events:
January 2010 – Congressman Salazar contacted TSA and the Department of Homeland Security, on Pueblo Airport’s behalf, to get approval for their expanded secure boarding area (from 55 passengers to 150 passengers). A requirement of Allegiant before committing to the new service.
June 2010 – Congressman Salazar worked to get approval from the FAA and USDA.
July 2010 – Congressman Salazar helped get inspectors on site from the FAA office in Seattle, Washington to give final approval to the project.
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