More than 300 people attended a ceremony on Thursday October 14 to mark breaking ground on Pittsburgh International Airport’s $1.39bn terminal modernisation programme.
Christina Cassotis, CEO of operator Allegheny County Airport Authority, said: “Ninety years ago, Allegheny County Airport opened as the first airport in the nation with full lighting and paved runways. We made aviation history. Today at Pittsburgh International Airport, we’re making history again. We’re really breaking ground on this region’s future.”
Modernisation involves construction of a new 700,000ft2 terminal that will include ticketing, security checkpoints and baggage claim. An adjacent complex includes a new 3,300-space parking garage, rental car facilities and new roadways.
According to an economic impact report created by the Economic Development Research Group, the new terminal, expected to open in 2025, will generate $2.5bn for the local economy and add some 5,500 local construction and skilled labour jobs, along with 8,500 other jobs. It will also generate $27m in local tax revenue.
Beth Hollerich
Key design features of the new terminal and parking facilities focus on elements of nature and sustainability, leading-edge technology and innovation in the community. Officials are seeking LEED certification at the silver level or beyond for the project. The first US airport terminal to be designed and built post-pandemic, the new facility will incorporate clean air technology and more space for social distancing. It will also feature outdoor terraces – both pre- and post-security – to ensure access to fresh air. During construction, a minimum of 75% waste generated will be recycled or reused, including concrete from existing airfield ramps that will be reused for new roads. Additional plans include rainwater harvesting and other water conservation efforts.
