Construct new FAA contract tower

Auburn University received a $7.58 million Project Grant from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under the Airport Improvement Program, Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Programs, and COVID-19 Airports Programs (CFDA 20.106) on September 12, 2025, for construction of a new FAA Contract Tower at Auburn Regional Airport. The grant funds the first phase of the project, which encompasses design and construction activities, with an ultimate completion date of September 11, 2029. The project will deliver a sponsor-owned, FAA-compliant control tower facility and acquire and install eligible equipment to support air traffic control operations.

This infrastructure investment will serve airports associated with Auburn, Alabama, and aligns with the FAA's strategic objectives of safety and operational excellence by modernizing airport infrastructure through the federal government's comprehensive nationwide system of public-use airports. The project represents a significant capital improvement for the region and demonstrates Auburn University's role as a capable institutional partner for executing federally-funded airport infrastructure development initiatives.

Activities and expected outcomes

This project constructs a new sponsor-owned federal aviation administration contract tower and acquires and installs eligible equipment. This grant funds the first phase of the project, which consists of design and construction. Intended beneficiary: this grant will provide federal funding for airports associated with auburn, alabama.