The Gerald R Ford International Airport recently welcomed a US$110 million extension project of Concourse A to meet increased passenger traffic. A ceremonial beam was lifted to celebrate the project’s investment, which is slated to generate 125 new construction jobs and add 157,000 square feet to Michigan’s second-largest airport.
Reportedly the expansion of Concourse A is part of the Elevate initiative, which has targeted almost $500 million in infrastructure improvements to improve the visitor experience while preparing the Airport for sustained development.
During construction, Concourse A will remain open.
Scope of the Gerald R Ford International Airport Expansion Project in Michigan
According to the Gerald R Ford International Airport, the expansion project will include adding eight new gates for a total of 15 to Concourse A in a bid to increase its current capacity. The 66-foot concourse will also be widened to 120 feet and lengthened by 510 feet for a total of more than 900 feet.
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The number of retail locations will also be increased as well as the number and variety of food and beverage options by introducing a marché, or market-style open concept area featuring regionally inspired cuisine, along with other vendor spaces, and add an executive lounge on an elevated level overlooking Concourse A. furthermore a wider range of seating alternatives will be provided to meet the requirements of guests, including tables, pods, and soft sitting options supplied by West Michigan manufacturers.
“Today has been a long time coming, and we couldn’t be happier to be here today to celebrate this huge investment in West Michigan’s future of travel. Prior to the pandemic, Ford International Airport has seen double-digit passenger growth for over two years, necessitating this mammoth redevelopment of what will become our hallmark concourse,” Airport Authority Board Chair Dan Koorndyk said in a prepared statement.
