Spokane International Airport (GEG) has reached a significant milestone with the completion of the Concourse C West Terminal Expansion project, announced on May 30, 2022. This expansion represents the halfway point in the ongoing Terminal Renovation and Expansion (TREX) program, designed to enhance the airport’s terminal facilities and improve operational efficiency. As passenger traffic continues to rise, this project aims to accommodate airlines such as Alaska Airlines and American Airlines while introducing state-of-the-art features to enhance the travel experience.
The need for this update became evident as the terminal facilities at Spokane International were deemed outdated. According to the GEG TREX website, the airport experienced record passenger traffic from 2017 to 2019, and current trends indicate a swift recovery to pre-pandemic levels, with over 4 million passengers expected annually. By 2030, projections suggest that the airport will serve approximately 6.2 million passengers each year. As Ezra Eckhardt, Chair of the Spokane Airport Board, noted, “We’re not just opening a new section of the terminal. We’re creating new economic opportunities for the Spokane community.”
New Features and Improvements
The expansion of Concourse C has added 144,000 square feet to the airport’s footprint at a cost of $150 million. The project includes three new gates and upgraded existing facilities, enhancing passenger convenience with additional ticket counters and loading bridges. Notably, the renovation incorporates advanced security measures and improved passenger flow systems.
Several features are designed to improve the overall airport experience, including:
– **Expanded Accessibility:** Enhanced facilities for passengers with disabilities, including in-floor hearing loops and companion care rooms.
– **Regionally Sourced Materials:** Fixtures and finishes such as Montanan basalt tiles and local mosaics create a unique sense of place.
– **Nursing Mother’s Room:** A dedicated space featuring private suites and lounge areas for nursing mothers.
– **Electrochromic Smart Windows:** These windows manage daylight and energy use, optimizing comfort.
– **Modern Restrooms:** Updated designs feature larger stalls and improved functionality.
Infrastructure upgrades will include enhancements to mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, along with a revamped baggage handling system and improved lighting.
Technological Innovations and Economic Impact
The introduction of gate hold technology aims to streamline operations and improve air traffic management. This technology aligns with FAA procedures to manage departure times and reduce airborne waiting periods. Automation will play a significant role in coordinating ground movements with traffic at destination airports, leveraging data analytics to enhance efficiency.
The TREX project is expected to significantly benefit the local economy, creating nearly 1,200 new jobs and generating an additional $87 million in household revenue. In the state of Washington, the economic activity generated by the terminal expansion could reach $313 million. Funding for the project has come from various sources, including bonds, federal CARES funds, Passenger Facility Charges, and an $11 million grant from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Airport Terminals Program, awarded by the Federal Aviation Administration.
The construction has provided opportunities for local firms, with the design led by Minneapolis-based Alliiance Co. and construction managed by a partnership between Q&D Construction and Spokane-based Garco Construction.
As Spokane International Airport continues to enhance its facilities, the TREX program embodies the airport’s commitment to fostering economic growth in the region. The project is expected to be fully completed by the fourth quarter of 2023, allowing the community to reap the benefits of improved air travel infrastructure.
Looking Ahead
The TREX website emphasizes the airport’s role in “Generating Economic Growth,” highlighting its focus on improving economic health in the area. With the anticipated completion of the project, Spokane International is poised to attract more business and leisure travelers, enhancing its status as a key player in regional aviation.
As construction nears completion, airport CEO Larry Krauter envisions a terminal that will not only serve functional purposes but also captivate travelers with its aesthetic appeal. The integration of locally sourced materials and environmentally friendly practices underscores a commitment to sustainability, as stated by Ezra Eckhardt: “A decision was made not only to support the regional businesses but help minimize shipping emissions.”
With these upgrades, Spokane International Airport is well-positioned to meet the demands of a growing passenger base while contributing significantly to the local economy.