WINDSOR LOCKS, CT (WWLP) - Bradley International Airport has secured $6 million in federal funding to advance a significant improvement project, the Connecticut Airport Authority (CAA) announced Monday. Crowds flock to tiny Massachusetts town to send off New York’s Rockefeller Christmas tree This funding will support the construction of an 80,000-square-foot inline baggage screening facility, designed to streamline the baggage handling process and enhance passenger experience. The new facility, located behind the Sheraton Hotel, is one of two major projects underway at Bradley. Once completed, baggage from airline ticket counters will move along a mile-long conveyor belt to the screening area, removing the need for explosive-detection machines in the terminal lobby and creating additional space for future airline expansion. Additionally, the facility will add three new gates to meet growing demand. “The CAA is grateful for this new infusion of federal funding as we continue construction on major projects to enhance the passenger experience at Bradley International Airport,” said CAA Executive Director Kevin A. Dillon. He also acknowledged the support from Governor Ned Lamont, Connecticut’s congressional delegation, and the Connecticut Business and Industry Association in securing the grant. This funding is part of $970 million awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) FY25 Airport Terminal Program, established under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Bradley has consistently benefited from the program, having received over $31 million in grant funding for terminal improvements in prior years. The CAA has successfully competed for these highly sought-after funds since the program’s inception. Governor Lamont praised the continued upgrades at Bradley, emphasizing that the new funding would help maintain the airport’s standing as one of the top-ranked travel hubs in the country. “Over the last several years, Bradley has implemented many major improvements that have resulted in this airport being ranked among the best in the nation,” said Lamont. “This funding will enable Bradley to continue making upgrades that will strengthen its reputation.” The CAA anticipates the total cost of the baggage screening facility will reach $188 million, with funding sourced from a combination of federal grants, passenger facility charges, and airport revenue. CBIA President and CEO Chris DiPentima noted the importance of Bradley to the state’s economy, calling the improvements crucial to making Connecticut a more attractive destination for businesses and travelers alike. CAA Board Chair Tony Sheridan expressed gratitude to Connecticut’s leaders for their role in securing the federal funds, noting, “Due to their hard work, Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill funds continue to be put to work in our state to modernize the airport.” Local News Headlines Election results may be delayed in key swing states Springfield woman selected as Veteran of the Year 35th Annual Puerto Rican Flag Raising in Springfield Know your voting rights WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.