Construction work has started on the US$1.1bn Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) set out by the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) for Orlando International Airport in Florida. The project will upgrade and create new facilities to resolve growth constraints, enhance operational efficiency and improve accessibility.
Frank Kruppenbacher, chairman for GOAA, the airport operator, said, “Supporting the dynamic growth in central Florida has always been the hallmark of our phased development philosophy. Sharing in the momentum generated by activity in tourism, medical research and services, and the arts provides a catalyst for job creation and economic vitality.”
The CIP will see a wide range of improvements take place at Orlando Airport including the expansion of North Terminal building; baggage-handling system improvements; gate upgrades to handle next generation aircraft; the replacement of the automated people mover (APM) trains at Airsides 1 and 3; the renovation of curbside canopies; roadway resurfacing; expanding the ticket lobby to incorporate new technology; an additional central energy plant; restroom renovations at Airside 4; adding international gates to Airside 4 to accommodate larger aircraft; expanding Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facilities; construction of the South Airport APM Complex and Intermodal Transportation Facility (ITF); and the development of a new travel plaza. The major construction projects are planned for completion in 2018.
Phil Brown, executive director for GOAA, said, “Today’s travelers expect a higher level of service, so it is essential that we strive to stay at the forefront of innovation and customer care. Our goal is to identify, develop and implement projects that meet the needs of the community and provide an optimal travel experience.”
Funding sources for CIP projects include airport revenue funds, general aviation revenue bonds (GARBS) and passenger facility charges (PFC). Construction firm Hensel Phelps will build the APM Complex and a joint venture between construction firms Turner and Kiewit will be responsible for the ITF facility. Mitsubishi will design and build the new APM train system.