A project that will add 75,000 square feet to the Barbra Jordan Terminal of the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport has begun, with ABIA staff and elected officials mark the occasion with a ceremonial groundbreaking Monday.
The West Infill project will encompass four levels of the terminal and increase space for security checkpoints, passenger processing, baggage handling, apron space, concourse capacity, and a new mezzanine level as well as mechanical, electrical, and IT system enhancements.
The construction required the closure of the Transportation Security Administration checkpoint near the JetBlue ticket counter, which will be expanded. ABIA added two lanes to a different checkpoint to offset congestion.
The $241 million terminal expansion is funded in part by $15.9 million from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, with the rest coming from a combination funding mechanisms including airport cash reserves, current and future airport revenues, future revenue bond proceeds, and Federal Aviation Administration grants.
The West Infill project, according to a city press release, will include:
- 6–8 additional security lanes at TSA Checkpoint 3, streamlining the screening process and reducing wait times for travelers.
- Completion of the new Outbound Baggage Handling system which will increase capacity for checked luggage screening, ensuring efficient and timely processing of luggage.
- Expanded ticketing counters and kiosks to accommodate the growing number of passengers passing through the airport.
- Pursuit of an Austin Energy Green Building (AEGB) 3-star rating, reflecting AUS's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
- New offices for AUS and TSA staff, providing improved working environments for airport personnel.
The city's project partners on the ABIA expansion are general contractor Whitling-Turner, architect Gensler, equipment manufacturer Siemens, airport design and construction company Vic Thompson Company, and engineering firms AECOM, GRAEF, and TLC Engineering Solutions.
