Walton County – August 5, 2025 – County officials joined DeFuniak Springs city officials, Florida Representative Shane Abbott, former Florida Senator George Gainer, and other state and local dignitaries for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the DeFuniak Springs Municipal Airport.
According to the city’s press release, the new $8.4 million terminal construction project represents a collaborative effort with multiple aviation-related grant funding opportunities secured by the city from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) work plan, a significant FDOT grant, a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grant, and the City’s American Rescue Plan Act funds.
Over the last five years, the city has secured more than $25 million in aviation- related funding for the airport, designated 54J. The terminal is part of the expansion project at the airport. Future plans include extending the runway, construction of new hangars, an access road, and a taxiway.
Although he was unable to attend in person, US Representative Neal Dunn issued a video statement that was shown at the ribbon cutting, “The DeFuniak Springs Airport Terminal project is a result of years of hard work, vision, and dedication. I can’t be prouder than to share this moment with you. As Walton County continues to grow, this facility will play an essential role in linking DeFuniak Springs to the rest of Florida and the entire country. The new terminal will help the airport handle increased traffic, enhancing connectivity and the quality of life for everyone in the community and their families.”
Mayor Bob Campbell noted, “Throughout the pandemic and an ever-changing economic climate, we have remained committed to this significant upgrade and modernization of our airport that we are confident will serve the city for years to come.
DeFuniak Springs Councilman Todd Bierbaum noted that, “The DeFuniak Springs Municipal Airport serves general and corporate aviation. Our mission is to be the premier general aviation airport on the Emerald Coast and the gateway airport to the beaches of South Walton and one of the newest hubs in the state for advanced aviation-related growth.”
