Henry Cuellar

Washington, Sep 25 -

Congressman Henry Cuellar (D-TX) announced today that the Department of Transportation, through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), has awarded the Laredo International Airport $2.8 million to mitigate airport noise.

“These funds provide necessary assistance to residents in close proximity to the airport – allowing the flow of travelers and goods to continue stimulating our local economy,” Congressman Cuellar said. “I thank Mayor Raul Salinas and Airport Manager Jose Luis Flores for their commitment to homeowners living around the Laredo International Airport area.”

The funds come from the FAA’s Airport Improvement Program and add to the recent award earlier this month of $1.2 million for noise mitigation purposes in the residential area adjacent to the Airport. The noise program, which began in 1994, allows the homeowner within the designated noise contour area to choose between three mitigation measures. The airport can acquire the property, purchase an easement (at 8 percent of the appraised value of the property) or insulate the home.

“As our airport continues to grow in service and capacity, it is important that it also be a good neighbor to the surrounding community. The $2.8 million noise mitigation grant will go a long way to reduce the airport’s impact to the neighborhood, ensuring the quality of life for Laredo residents,” said City of Laredo Mayor Raul G. Salinas.

In addition to the $1.2 million grant awarded earlier this month, the $2.8 million will assist 416 homeowners. New noise contours are currently being developed and will determine future funding under the noise program. The noise study is projected to be complete in December of this year.