The Biden Administration presented the Bush Intercontinental Airport with $40 million from its bipartisan infrastructure funding.
Buttigieg said the funding will be used to help improve airport security checkpoints, baggage claim areas, gates and pickup and drop off spots.
"When you are checking in you should be able to check your bags and get to your gate without any unnecessary delay," Buttigieg said. "If you’re traveling with small children like Chasten and I are, you should have an easy place to change your baby on a layover for work you should be able to plug in and charge."
IAH's terminal redevelopment program is the largest project in the airport’s 53-year-history and is scheduled to be completed in 2024.
Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia says Hobby Airport also received funding through the bipartisan infrastructure bill.
"I represent Hobby and it's great to say I represent a five-star airport," Garcia added with a smile. "I now have a great line for my district, because not only are we five-star, we have money to address the equity issues and access. The upgrades that will be done will help serve the disabled community."
During his visit to Houston, Buttigieg also addressed major infrastructure projects funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Buttigieg said that $21 million will be used to buy a new fleet of electric buses, which would help with less greenhouse gases, pollution, and faster commutes.
"$21 million from the infrastructure law and our department to rebuild Telephone Road to make it safer, new sidewalks, better crosswalks, more protective bike lanes, protecting some of the most vulnerable road users," Buttigieg said. "Those users are some of the most underserved residents in this city and I'll tell you, mayor and everyone else that was part of that, each of these members supported that application."
Garcia is a strong supportive of the plan.
"The Race grant is very important because this is money that is going to an area that is underserved, that's been neglected for some time," Garcia explained. "Under this administration and Joe Biden and Mr. Secretary there is a big emphasis on equity and serving the underserved communities and those who can least afford to get around."