Reconstruct perimeter security fencing

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) awarded Kansas City Downtown Airport - Wheeler Field a $11.4 million Project Grant on August 26, 2025, under the Airport Improvement Program (CFDA 20.106) to reconstruct perimeter security fencing infrastructure required by 49 CFR 1542. Phase 1 of this project, funded through this award, encompasses the reconstruction of 41,500 linear feet of security fence and 20 existing gates at the airport. The complete multi-phase initiative will eventually reconstruct the entire 82,500 feet of existing perimeter fencing and 41 existing gates that have reached the end of their useful lives. The project performance period extends through August 25, 2029, providing the municipality with critical federal funding to maintain airport security infrastructure compliance and operational integrity.

This grant supports the FAA's strategic objectives of safety and operational excellence by addressing aging airport infrastructure at the publicly-owned facility serving the Kansas City, Missouri metropolitan area. The Airport Improvement Program provides federal funding to develop and maintain a nationwide system of public-use airports adequate to meet civil aeronautics needs, with typical project awards supporting safety-critical improvements such as runway rehabilitation, taxiway reconstruction, and security enhancements. The reconstruction of the perimeter security fencing directly supports federal aviation safety standards and the airport's continued compliance with applicable transportation security regulations.

Activities and expected outcomes

This project reconstructs 82,500 feet of existing perimeter fencing and 41 existing gates required by 49 CFR 1542 that have reached the end of their useful lives. This grant funds phase 1, which consists of reconstructing 41,500 feet of security fence and 20 existing gates. Intended beneficiary: this grant will provide federal funding for airports associated with kansas city, missouri.