NORTH PLATTE TELEGRAPH: Investing in North Platte

This press release from Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) was published on 2026-10-13 and titled "NORTH PLATTE TELEGRAPH: Investing in North Platte".

NORTH PLATTE TELEGRAPH: Investing in North Platte

Nebraska remains competitive when it stays connected. Every mile of highway, stretch of rail, and foot of runway connects Nebraska communities to new opportunities. Investing in infrastructure across our state - in towns like North Platte - is what keeps those connections strong. Two years ago, I was honored to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for a new terminal at the North Platte Regional Airport. Then, Lee Bird Field's passenger terminal - with only 50 seats - had not been touched since 1952. This August, we celebrated the completion of the project. It was incredible to see the terminal's transformation at the ribbon cutting ceremony. It is unrecognizable - fully modernized with expanded seating, updated restrooms and a jet bridge boarding system. This is an outstanding achievement and a game changer for western Nebraska. I was proud to have secured $10 million for the terminal through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in 2021. And I used my role on the Senate Appropriations Committee to secure an additional $7 million for the effort. Projects like the North Platte Airport's new terminal are exactly what the federal government should be funding - investing in things that make daily life better for Nebraskans. And by using federal funds, we are bringing home tax dollars Nebraskans already sent to Washington and providing much-needed property tax relief. It is impressive that this project was completed in only two years - a true testament to the power of collaboration. Local, state and federal leaders worked hand-in-hand to send this project over the finish line. I am particularly grateful to the North Platte Regional Airport Authority, whose team identified this opportunity to enhance the travel experience and worked alongside my office to make it a reality. We have seen an incredible amount of growth in North Platte over recent years, and the community has attracted billions in development. In fact, the city has attracted $2 billion in development since 2020. Because of this new terminal, North Platte and its surrounding counties can continue their remarkable success. Improved access to passenger air travel in western Nebraska will generate millions in economic growth, and it all begins with an investment. This project was possible because Nebraskans recognized a need in their community and took action. I invite all Nebraskans to do the same and contact my office if we can be of assistance. I am honored to serve as your senior U.S. senator and pleased to bring investments like this one back to our state.