The Port of Seattle has officially broken ground on its North Satellite Modernization Project with the aim of improving congestion and the passenger experience at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) in Washington.
The US$550m project will expand and renovate the aging facility by adding eight new gates and a 240ft extension to the west of the existing building. Further improvements include the addition of an upper-level mezzanine, constructing a rooftop Alaska Airlines lounge with views of the Olympic Mountains, and more than doubling the existing dining and retail space for travelers. Phase one of the project is scheduled to open in 2019 followed by the renovation of the eastern side of the facility which will be completed in 2021.
Stephanie Bowman, commissioner, Port of Seattle, said, “Passenger needs are changing. Back in 1973, when this building was built, no one needed speedy wi-fi or power outlets to charge their mobile devices. This project represents benefits not just for travelers, but also for the broader community, including more jobs in construction and airport industries, future opportunities for entrepreneurs in dining and retail businesses, sophisticated building plans to lessen our environmental impact, and an artistic vision that our community can be proud of.”
The design for the North Satellite takes references from Washington’s natural environment, specifically its rivers, which have influenced the form of the articulated roof. The interior features wide, naturally-lit concourses constructed of materials, colors and finishes also inspired by the Pacific Northwest environment. The renovated facility will look to attain Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification and will create an estimated 5,100 jobs during its construction.
Andrew Harrison, executive vice president and chief commercial officer at Alaska Airlines, said, “As Seattle’s hometown airline, Alaska is committed to continue to grow and invest at Sea-Tac. Our investment in the North Satellite is one of the largest we have made in decades and sets the stage for more to come. The North Satellite will embody our Northwest roots while providing modern amenities to make the travel experience exceptional for our guests. In addition to the 15,000ft² rooftop lounge on the North Satellite, we will also be opening a third lounge on Concourse C in May 2017.”
Written by Dan Symonds