The John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) in Columbus, Ohio, has officially commenced construction on its massive $2 billion terminal replacement project. A groundbreaking ceremony in mid-December brought together state and local officials, airport partners, and community members to celebrate the start of this transformative development. This new terminal promises to modernize the airport, enhance passenger experience, and cater to the growing travel demands of the region.
The construction of this state-of-the-art terminal, managed by Hensel Phelps, will replace the existing facility which has served passengers since 1958. This significant upgrade is designed to bring John Glenn Columbus International Airport into a new era of air travel, equipped with modern amenities and increased capacity.
Key Features of the John Glenn Columbus International Airport Expansion
The ambitious project includes several key features designed to improve both functionality and aesthetics of the airport. Passengers can look forward to a more streamlined and enjoyable travel experience thanks to these planned enhancements:
- Pedestrian Bridge: A pedestrian bridge will connect the new terminal to the ground transportation center, creating seamless access to rental car facilities and the new parking garage.
- Entry Canopy and Head House: An impressive entry canopy and head house will welcome travelers, providing a modern and inviting gateway to the airport.
- Central Marketplace: The heart of the new terminal will be a light-filled central marketplace. This area will showcase local food and beverage options, offering passengers a taste of Columbus.
- East and West Concourses: The terminal will feature new east and west concourses, significantly increasing the number of gates available.
- Dual-Level Curbside Access: To improve traffic flow, the new terminal will offer two levels of curbside access for departures and arrivals.
- Centralized Security Checkpoint: A single, centralized security checkpoint near the terminal entrance will streamline the screening process, making security more efficient for travelers.
- 36 Gates, Including International Capacity: The new terminal will boast 36 gates, including two dedicated international gates, positioning John Glenn Columbus International Airport for increased global connectivity.
- 5,000-Space Parking Garage: Addressing parking needs, a new 5,000-space parking garage will be constructed as part of the ground transportation center.
Construction Timeline and Capacity of the New Terminal
Construction is already underway on the site, which is located on a current parking lot south of International Gateway, the main airport entry from Interstate 670. The project is slated for completion in 2029, marking a significant milestone for John Glenn Columbus International Airport and the region.
Once complete, the new terminal will dramatically increase the airport’s capacity, capable of handling 13 million passengers annually. This is a substantial increase compared to the 8.7 million passengers who traveled through John Glenn Columbus International Airport and the nearby Rickenbacker airport passenger terminals combined in 2023, indicating the project is proactively addressing future growth in air travel.
Labor Agreements and Community Commitment
While the project is moving forward, it follows a period of negotiation challenges between local trade unions and the airport authority regarding labor agreements. Union leaders had advocated for a community agreement to ensure workers receive prevailing wages and benefits. Despite the absence of a formal agreement, Hensel Phelps has stated its commitment to paying prevailing wages and supporting local workforce development.
Chuck May, project executive for Hensel Phelps, affirmed this commitment, stating that the firm and the airport authority will voluntarily pay labor rates equal to the prevailing wage and fringe benefits. Furthermore, Hensel Phelps has set a goal of 25% diversity business partner participation, representing a substantial $400 million in contracts for small, local, minority-owned, women-owned, and veteran-owned firms. This commitment aims to ensure the project benefits the broader Columbus community.
Despite ongoing discussions with unions, all parties involved express optimism that the John Glenn Columbus International Airport terminal project will be a success, delivering a modern, efficient, and passenger-friendly airport for Columbus and the surrounding region. The expansion is poised to significantly enhance the travel experience and contribute to the economic growth of Central Ohio.
