Recognizing Denver International Airport's (DIA) 20 Years of Service

Floor Speech

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Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Denver International Airport's (DIA) 20 years of service to the people of Colorado. The airport started serving flyers on February 28, 1995 and has brought travelers to and from Denver safely and swiftly ever since.

Today, Denver International's CEO, Kim Day, and the airport staff operate the fifth-busiest airport in the country. DIA has become an economic engine for the state of Colorado, stimulating more than $26 billion in annual revenue for the region.

Additionally, DIA now supports more than 183,000 jobs, with an estimated annual payroll of nearly $8.5 billion. The airport has grown to serve more than 170 nonstop destinations around the world in nine countries, representing new gateways to cultural and economic opportunities in Asia, Central America, Europe, and beyond.

In addition to serving the people of Colorado, DIA set the standard for environmentally responsible airports. Denver International's translucent fabric canopy takes advantage of our 300 days of sunshine per year to create a passively lit interior. Additionally, the airport hosts a 9,000 panel solar array that produces 3.5 million kilowatts of power.

For me, DIA's distinctive profile that mimics both the snow-peaked Rockies and the Native American teepees of Colorado's history means that I have arrived home.

I congratulate everyone involved with the airport in reaching this milestone anniversary and extend my sincere gratitude for their continued success and service to our community.

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