Austin airport breaks ground on West Gate Expansion project
Thursday, August 31, 2023 by Eric Webb
Some literally groundbreaking news: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport just marked the start of construction on the West Gate Expansion project. It’s part of the airport’s Journey With AUS expansion effort “that will improve the Central Texas airport that continues to serve a record-breaking volume of passenger and airline activities,” according to a Wednesday news release.
The three new gates built during construction will offset the closure of existing gates during future construction at the airport, according to the news release. According to the airport, the West Gate Expansion project also will:
- Increase terminal space by an additional 84,500 square feet;
- Add new food and retail spaces, public art, seating areas, the largest restrooms in the terminal, relaxation spaces and private rooms for nursing or pumping; and
- Construct a third-level outdoor public patio with views of the skyline.
And about the money: “Like all airport improvements, no local Austin taxpayer dollars will be used to fund the project. The improvements will be funded through traditional airport development funding sources, such as airport cash reserves, current and future airport revenues and future revenue bond proceeds. AUS is currently evaluating opportunities for federal grant funding to support the project,” according to the news release.
The West Gate Expansion is slated to open in 2026. Get more info at the city’s website.
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