Inland Empire Lands $82 Million in Federal Funding

Funds will go toward infrastructure, school safety, and other community projects across the region.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A new federal spending package signed into law in January will provide at least $82 million in funding for various projects across the Inland Empire region of Southern California. The money will be used for an air traffic control tower, street repaving, school and water infrastructure upgrades, and other community improvements requested by local members of Congress.

Why it matters

This federal funding represents a significant investment in the Inland Empire's infrastructure and public services, addressing longstanding needs in areas like transportation, education, and water management. The projects are expected to improve public safety, support economic growth, and enhance the quality of life for residents across the region.

The details

The $82 million in funding includes $67 million secured by Rep. Ken Calvert, R-Corona, whose district covers parts of Riverside and San Bernardino counties. This money will go toward building a 93-foot air traffic control tower at the French Valley Airport, as well as repaving streets, upgrading school safety, and improving water infrastructure in cities like Hemet, Beaumont, Ontario, and Chino Hills. Rep. Raul Ruiz, D-Palm Desert, also secured $17 million for 14 projects in his district, while Rep. Norma Torres, D-Ontario, announced $10.7 million for eight initiatives in her area.

  • The federal spending package was signed into law in January 2026.
  • The air traffic control tower project at French Valley Airport is expected to be completed in the next 12-18 months.

The players

Rep. Ken Calvert

A Republican representing California's 42nd congressional district, which includes parts of Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

Rep. Raul Ruiz

A Democrat representing California's 36th congressional district, which includes Banning, Beaumont, San Jacinto, and part of Hemet.

Rep. Norma Torres

A Democrat representing California's 35th congressional district, which encompasses Chino, Montclair, Ontario, and parts of several other cities.

Chuck Washington

Riverside County Supervisor whose district includes the French Valley Airport.

Mark Prestwich

Hemet City Manager.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This support helps advance critical investments … ensuring Hemet remains a connected, thriving and forward-looking city.”

— Mark Prestwich, Hemet City Manager (News release)

“The money moves us closer to delivering an air traffic control tower that will improve safety, support local jobs, and strengthen the continued growth of our regional aviation economy.”

— Chuck Washington, Riverside County Supervisor (News release)

What’s next

The air traffic control tower project at French Valley Airport is expected to begin construction in the next 12-18 months, once final planning and permitting is completed.

The takeaway

This federal funding represents a significant investment in the Inland Empire's infrastructure and public services, addressing longstanding needs and positioning the region for continued growth and development. The diverse array of projects, from transportation to education to water management, underscores the region's multifaceted priorities and the importance of securing federal support to tackle these community-wide challenges.