Spokane International Airport (GEG) has made significant strides in expanding its terminal facilities, marking the completion of the Concourse C West Terminal Expansion project on May 30, 2022. This development is part of the ongoing Terminal Renovation and Expansion (TREX) program, designed to enhance the airport’s capacity and overall efficiency in response to increasing passenger traffic. The west expansion of Concourse C will serve operations for Alaska Airlines and American Airlines and is set to introduce numerous state-of-the-art amenities.
Passenger numbers at Spokane International have seen remarkable growth, necessitating these upgrades. Between 2017 and 2019, the airport experienced record traffic growth each year. Following the pandemic-related downturn, passenger figures have rebounded, now approaching pre-pandemic levels of over 4 million passengers annually. Projections indicate that by 2030, the airport will accommodate approximately 6.2 million passengers per year, highlighting the urgent need for modernization.
Understanding the Need for Renovation
The renovation and expansion of Spokane International Airport are critical due to an outdated terminal that lacks capacity for current and future demands. According to the GEG TREX project website, the terminal had become insufficient to handle the growing passenger load, which has increased significantly in recent years. Spokane Airport Board Chair Ezra Eckhardt noted, “We’re not just opening a new section of the terminal. We’re creating new economic opportunities for the Spokane community.”
The expansion project, which has a budget of approximately $150 million, involves a substantial increase in the footprint of Concourse C by 144,000 square feet. This includes the addition of three new gates and an upgrade of existing upper-level gates. Enhanced ticketing facilities will also be introduced, featuring six new airline counter locations.
Innovative Features and Technologies
The new Concourse C at Spokane International Airport will showcase several advanced features aimed at enhancing the passenger experience. These include:
– **Expanded Accessibility**: Facilities for passengers with disabilities, including in-floor hearing loops and companion care rooms.
– **Regionally Sourced Materials**: The terminal will feature local design elements such as Montanan basalt tiles and custom mosaics, creating a unique sense of place.
– **Nursing Mother’s Room**: A dedicated space offering privacy and comfort for new mothers.
– **Smart Windows**: Electrochromic windows that adjust to manage daylight and energy use effectively.
– **Modernized Restrooms**: Upgraded restrooms designed for improved functionality and accessibility.
– **Open-Air Plaza**: A spacious area designed to enhance the overall airport experience for travelers.
In addition to these features, upgrades to mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems are also planned, along with improvements to baggage handling systems. These enhancements will allow for a smoother and more efficient airport experience.
One of the notable technological upgrades is the implementation of gate hold technology, aimed at improving traffic flow. This system helps manage flight departures better by coordinating with air traffic control to prevent delays and optimize airport capacity.
Economic Impact and Future Plans
The expansion of Spokane International Airport is expected to yield significant economic benefits for the local community. It is projected to create nearly 1,200 new jobs and generate an additional $87 million in household revenue. The anticipated economic activity from this project is estimated at around $313 million for the state of Washington.
Funding for the TREX project has been sourced from a variety of means, including bonds, federal CARES funds, and an $11 million grant from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Airport Terminals Program awarded by the Federal Aviation Administration in July 2022.
Spokane International’s recent expansion and modernization efforts not only support the region’s economic growth but also ensure the airport’s competitive position in the aviation market. The airport’s recovery post-pandemic has been one of the fastest among smaller and medium-sized airports in the United States, signaling a bright future ahead.
As the TREX project nears completion, with full renovations expected by the fourth quarter of 2023, the community anticipates the positive impact this expansion will have on both passenger experience and local economic vitality. The enhancements promise to transform Spokane International into a modern, efficient airport capable of meeting the needs of a growing traveler base.
