Udall, Heinrich Announce Federal Funds for Portales Airport in Eastern New Mexico

WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Tom Udall (D-N.M) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M) announced a $431,890 grant for the Portales Municipal Airport, enabling the airport to sell fuel as an additional source of revenue and improve its ability to become self-sustainable. The funding will pay for the construction of two 12,000 gallon tanks.

"This funding will enable the Portales airport to purchase its own fuel tanks, an important step that will increase revenue and help the airport become self-sustainable, and — in the process — benefit folks in Eastern New Mexico who rely on air service for transportation and business," Udall said. "New Mexico's airports help drive the economy in our rural communities and keep them connected to the rest of the state, and it is critical that we ensure they have the funding they need to continue improving infrastructure and expanding capacity. As a member of the Senate Appropriations and Commerce committees, I'll continue to fight for federal funding that supports our airports' important role in encouraging tourism and commerce, and attracting businesses and creating jobs throughout New Mexico."

“The Portales airport plays an essential role in the local economy, helping to drive commerce and create jobs in Eastern New Mexico,” said Heinrich. "This grant will provide an important opportunity for the airport to increase its revenue and become more sustainable. I’m proud to fight for smart investments that support our rural communities and strengthen our state’s economy.”

The funding comes from the Department of Transportation's Federal Aviation Administration.