On Friday, August 23, the Arkansas Legislative Council approved $16.7 million in funding for infrastructure improvements at Texarkana Regional Airport (TXK).
The improvements will include expanding the runway and taxiways to accommodate larger aircraft, such as the Boeing 777, and support cargo and maintenance repair overhaul operations. Additionally, the airport plans to build approximately 175,000 square feet of hangar space, costing around $35 million, which will be funded through bonds. This expansion will create opportunities for future development.
Governor Sanders expressed pride in supporting the project, highlighting its potential to bring more jobs and visitors to the region. “Texarkana is the town where I grew up, and it’s been amazing to watch the entire region grow. Now that I’m Governor, I’m proud to support one of the city’s landmark projects, the Texarkana Regional Airport,” said Sanders.
Additional funding from U.S. Sen. John Boozman, U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman, U.S. Rep. Nathaniel Moran, and local sources will contribute to over $100 million in total improvements over the next three years.
Paul Mehrlich, Executive Director of Aviation for Texarkana Regional Airport, emphasized that the upgrades would create long-term, well-paying jobs benefiting the entire region, including the aerospace and defense industries in Camden, Arkansas, and the lithium industry near Magnolia, Arkansas. “The infrastructure improvements enabled by these funds will create good-paying jobs for the long-term,” said Mehrlich.
Jerry Chism, Director of the Arkansas Division of Aeronautics, stated that these enhancements position the Texarkana Regional Airport as a significant player in the national airspace system, potentially attracting additional airlines and maintenance operations.
In June 2024, Texarkana Regional Airport unveiled its new $49 million terminal, the Jim E. Yates Terminal, which is double the size of the previous terminal built in 1960. The 40,000-square-foot facility includes jet bridges, an additional gate with space for expansion, and an upgraded baggage-handling system.
