Secretary Duffy and Congressman Barr toured the airport’s air traffic control tower and met with local leaders during a roundtable discussion focused on transportation needs and improvements to air traffic control and the terminal building. Barr said the funding for upgrades at BGA came from the Working Families Tax Cut.
"We've already installed new radios. We're installing brand new Surface Awareness Initiative, install new radars, replace (sic) displays for controllers, installing a new tower simulation system, and install new IP voice switches," Barr said.
The investment is part of a broader national push to replace outdated aviation technology, improve air traffic safety and reduce travel delays. The $17 million investment at BGA includes upgrades to air traffic control systems, technology that Duffy said has been neglected in Lexington for “30 years.”
"We are going to make the switch over from analog to digital. From copper to fiber. Your airport is already done," Duffy said.
The visit comes as Blue Grass Airport moves forward with its Future LEX development program, a long-term expansion plan to accommodate continued growth in passenger traffic.
The airport announced the program in May. Plans include expanding the terminal from 10 to 14 gates, adding more than 800 long-term parking spaces, relocating and expanding the rental car facility, and preparing for the future relocation of the Federal Aviation Administration’s air traffic control tower.
The initial phase of Future LEX is expected to include expanded dining and retail options, as well as a modernized baggage claim area. The project is expected to be completed in 2028.
