Progress is building at Port Columbus, which had a 15% increase in passengers in 2007 for a total of 7.7 million. Approximately 10 million annual passengers can be accommodated by the current terminal, which based on growth projections is expected to reach capacity in 2020. A proactive capital improvement plan positions the airport to have facilities ready when growth demands them, and just as importantly, not before they are required.

The Port Columbus capital improvement program, dubbed “Progress is Building,” is comprised of six major elements designed to provide the highest levels of customer service while reaping the maximum return on investment. Because no local tax funds will be used on these projects, airport revenue bonds, capital reserves, customer facility charges, FAA Airport Improvement Program Grants and other federal funds will be combined to finance the program.

The six major elements of the capital improvement program and their components are highlighted below:

Maximize Current Terminal Capacity Checked baggage screening Expand security checkpoints Additional restrooms Baggage system enhancements Additional concessions International Gateway Interchange Provide more efficient public access to the airport Grade separation of International Gateway & Stelzer Road Eliminate two traffic lights coming into the airport Shift International Gateway to the north Additional Crossover Taxiway Provide access between north & south runways on the west side More efficient airfield movement for aircraft & vehicles South Runway Replacement Build new runway 700’ south of existing southern runway Widen space between runways for second terminal Increase airport capacity by allowing simultaneous arrivals & departures Convert existing runway into a taxiway Consolidated Rental Car Facility Construct a new, consolidated facility dedicated to rental car services Demand expected to exceed capacity in 2011 Reduce traffic on airport roadways Provide more garage parking for the public Serve two airport terminals Second Terminal & Garage Meet future demand beyond 10 million passengers Built in phases as demand dictates Leading edge security & passenger convenience

Want additional information? Contact Bernie Meleski, Director of Airport Planning & Development, at bmeleski@columbusairports.com or check out these resources: Ultimate Site Plan PDF File (625 K) Master Plan's Executive Summary PDF File (4.1 M)