Esterly: New air traffic control tower is a significant milestone for Valley International Airport

It is with great pride and excitement that I stand before you today for this historic groundbreaking ceremony for the new air traffic control tower here at Valley International Airport. 

This project marks a significant milestone in our continuous efforts to enhance and expand our facilities to better serve the citizens of the Rio Grande Valley. 

Over the past decades, Valley International Airport has not only witnessed tremendous growth, but also demonstrated a remarkable recovery from the impacts of the pandemic. Our resilience and ability to adapt quickly have ensured that we continue to serve as a vital link in the economic fabric of the region, even during the most challenging times. 

The city fathers knew what they were doing when they made a decision in 1950 to form the Harlingen Airport Board. The board’s organizational structure in itself has been vital to our growth, as well as admired by our peers. 

Valley International Airport is undeniably a major asset for the Rio Grande Valley. It has enormous potential for future growth and expansion. It is poised to serve the diverse needs of our community for many years to come. 

As we break ground on this state of the art air traffic control facility, we reaffirm our commitment to safety, efficiency and innovation. 

The dedication and commitment of the airport board have been crucial in bringing to completion projects that will propel us and our success into the future. 

I would like to thank our FAA partners at the Texas district office. We have (FAA Texas Airports District Office Manager) Anthony Bryant here today.

Today as we embark on this new chapter with the construction of our advanced air traffic control tower, we also celebrate the near completion of the new runway extension project and the new special Category 2 instrument landing systems that come with that. We want to thank Bryan and the FAA. 

Together these initiatives are set to significantly enhance our operational capabilities and ensure that valley International Airport remains the airport of choice in the Rio Grande Valley. 

So again, thank you thank you to each and every one of you here in attendance today. This groundbreaking is about laying groundwork for new opportunities and continuing to dream big together. 

Let’s celebrate the bright future that lies ahead for Valley International Airport, the city of Harlingen and the entire Rio Grande Valley. 

Editor’s Note: The above commentary is based on remarks Marv Esterly gave at a groundbreaking ceremony for a new air traffic control tower at Valley International Airport in Harlingen. Easterly is aviation director for VIA. The ceremony took place e on April 24, 2024.

Editor’s Note: Here is an audio recording of Esterly’s remarks in full:

Editor’s Note: The above story is the first in a three-part series on VIA’s new air traffic control tower. Part Two will be posted in our next edition.

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