Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) has completed Phase 1 of its Concourse A expansion project.
This achievement is part of a 110 million USD project to accommodate passenger growth in West Michigan.
Concourse A Phase I opened to the public on 16 June and will primarily serve guests flying with American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines.
The expansion has added eight new gates, bringing the total to 14, as well as increasing gate space to accommodate larger aircraft.
In addition, the project has provided new concession and retail space, a greater range of seating options and a new companion care restroom that includes an adult changing table.
The expansion is part of the ELEVATE programme, which is designating more than 500 million USD to infrastructure investments that will improve the guest experience and prepare the airport for continued growth.
Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson said:We are delighted to celebrate this significant milestone in the monumental transformation of our state-of-the-art Concourse A. This investment positions us for our anticipated passenger growth trajectory for the next two decades – and ensures we continue to deliver a world-class experience as West Michigan’s gateway to the world.
The Airport will now transition to Phase 2 of the project, which will widen and renovate the gates in the existing portion of Concourse A. In addition, it will add a second-level executive lounge and will provide more amenities for passengers.
This second phase is scheduled for completion in 2024. Meanwhile, plans for additional infrastructure improvements under the ELEVATE programme are also underway. This includes:
- The addition of a federal inspection station to enable the airport to offer nonstop international commercial passenger flights
- The relocation of the current air traffic control tower to make way for terminal-area developments such as additional tenant hangars
- A consolidated rental car facility with an enclosed walkway from the terminal to offer additional transportation accommodations
- Additional parking capacity to accommodate increased guest traffic.
- A terminal expansion plan to accommodate a new checked baggage inspection system
