Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is set to expand with a new four-floor building early next year. Known as the West Infill project, this expansion will add 75,000 square feet to the Barbara Jordan Terminal. The construction extends from the western end of the concourse center to the terminal curbside roadway and includes several levels: baggage claim, apron, concourse, mezzanine, and roof.
The baggage claim level will feature a new Outbound Baggage Handling System aimed at improving baggage flow. Steven Real, P.E., a project manager for the Journey With AUS expansion program, expressed enthusiasm about this addition. “It will improve the flow of the baggage,” he said. “It’s a much faster system.” This system is expected to enhance reliability and reduce flight delays.
The apron level will provide additional office space for Department of Aviation employees involved in the expansion program. A wellness room will be available for new mothers or those needing quiet time. “It will also allow for quiet meditation,” Real noted.
On the concourse level, three new ticket counters will accommodate airlines currently at The South Terminal, which is slated for removal next year. These counters will include six new ticketing positions. The area will also feature environmentally sourced wood baffles in public spaces and additional artwork installations from Voyages.
A significant addition on this level is Checkpoint 4, a new security checkpoint managed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), featuring 6 to 8 lanes. Existing checkpoints will be renamed accordingly.
The mezzanine level plans include an indoor lounge yet to be announced. The roof will house an independent HVAC system dedicated to cooling the West Infill area separately from other terminal sections. “We want the West Infill to be a very comfortable space for travelers as well as TSA agents,” Real explained.
Designed by Gensler and constructed by Whiting-Turner, the West Infill project began enabling work in Fall 2023 and is expected to finish by Spring 2026. It aims for a 3-star Austin Energy Green Building rating and its exterior design matches that of a previous terminal expansion completed in 2019.
“We are putting up final finishes: drywall and paints and finishes,” Real shared about current progress. Travelers can anticipate more space when it opens in 2026.
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