Rep. Panetta Secures More Than $3.1 Million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funding for Monterey and Marina Airports

September 10, 2026 Press Release Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) announced that he secured $3,144,720 in federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support infrastructure improvements at Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) and Marina Municipal Airport (OAR). The grants are being awarded as part of the final installment of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Infrastructure Grants program. Monterey Regional Airport will receive $2,662,833 to support construction of the landside circulation in conjunction with its new 62,754-square-foot replacement terminal, which will have five gates and passenger boarding bridges. The funding will support Phase 9 of the project, consisting of construction of relocated parking and utilities. Marina Municipal Airport will receive $481,887 to reseal 3,483 feet of Runway 11/29 pavement, extending the useful life of the runway and supporting continued safe airport operations. “I’m proud to have secured more than $3.1 million in federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to strengthen the aviation infrastructure our communities rely on,” said Rep. Panetta. “This federal investment in our home will continue supporting the development of the new terminal at Monterey Regional Airport while making critical runway improvements at Marina Municipal Airport. These projects will enhance safety, create jobs, strengthen our local aviation infrastructure, and help ensure that our airports can continue connecting residents, visitors, and communities throughout California’s 19th Congressional District.” “This latest federal investment represents another important step in creating a safer, more efficient, and more welcoming experience at Monterey Regional Airport,” said Chris Morello, MRY Executive Director. “Funding for the relocated landside circulation components will help ensure the infrastructure surrounding our new terminal supports passengers from the moment they arrive. We appreciate Congressman Panetta’s continued partnership and commitment to advancing this transformational project for the Monterey region.” “Marina Municipal Airport is an important transportation and economic asset for the City of Marina and the greater Monterey Bay region. This $481,887 investment from the Federal Aviation Administration will allow us to rehabilitate Runway 11/29, extend the useful life of this critical infrastructure, and ensure the airport continues to safely support its diverse aviation users. This investment is especially important as Marina Municipal Airport continues to evolve as a hub for innovation and Advanced Air Mobility. With Joby Aviation’s significant presence at the airport and continued investment in the development of next-generation electric aircraft, Marina is helping position the Monterey Bay region at the forefront of the emerging Advanced Air Mobility industry. Maintaining and modernizing our core airport infrastructure is essential as we support both the aviation needs of today and the technologies that will shape the future of aviation. We greatly appreciate Congressman Panetta’s continued advocacy for Marina Municipal Airport and his support for federal investments that strengthen aviation infrastructure, encourage innovation, and create new economic opportunities for our community and region,” said Courtney Lindberg, Assistant City Manager, City of Marina and A.J. Lawson, Airport Manager, City of Marina. The funding for Monterey Regional Airport builds on Rep. Panetta’s continued efforts to secure federal support for the airport’s replacement terminal. Last month, Rep. Panetta announced an additional $2,368,257 in FAA Airport Improvement Program funding to support inspection activities during construction of the new terminal. With Rep. Panetta’s support, Monterey Regional Airport has been awarded over $135 million in total federal funding for modernization, supporting terminal design, tarmac improvements, and other safety upgrades as part of its safety enhancement program. The airport’s existing terminal opened in 1950. FAA is requiring that the passenger facilities be relocated to accommodate federally required operational safety enhancements to Taxiway A, which connects to the airport’s primary commercial runway. The replacement terminal is designed to be accessible, easier for passengers to navigate, and responsive to the airport’s growing demand. The design also calls for the terminal to be zero-net-energy ready and incorporate sustainable materials and features that are emblematic of the Monterey region. The Airport Infrastructure Grants program was established through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to provide federal investments for airport planning and development, terminal improvements, baggage system upgrades, runway and taxiway rehabilitation, roadway and access improvements, and other safety-related infrastructure needs. ###