Gary airport finalizing 2027 budget, tell me about this news in (https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/09/10/gary-airport-finalizing-2027-budget/)

The Gary/Chicago International Airport Authority is advancing its long-term financial planning and capital budget heading toward 2027, centered around major infrastructure modernization and operational expansion.Key developments highlighted around the airport’s planning include:

• New Air Traffic Control Tower: The airport secured full fundinganchored by an $8.3 million Department of Transportation Airport Improvement Program grant alongside a previous $10 million FAA grantto build a replacement air traffic control tower. The new tower, budgeted at roughly $18.3 million, is designed to stand about 50 feet taller than the existing 1972 structure and is scheduled for completion in late 2027.
• Operational and Capital Priorities: Budget allocations are structured around supporting rising corporate, cargo, and general aviation traffic, upgrading airfield safety systems, and managing site preparation for expanded logistics and tenant facilities.
• Economic Development: The budget framework aligns with regional initiatives led by local and federal officials to leverage the airport’s expanded runway and customs facilities, aiming to attract more private investment and logistics partnerships to Northwest Indiana and the greater Chicago region.