Arup will oversee the development strategy for Newark Liberty International Airport, in partnership with architects Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM).
Airport operator the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) has confirmed that Arup will be responsible for creating a comprehensive development strategy and blueprint – including extensive local community outreach and participation – to accommodate future growth and demand, improve the travel experience and identify opportunities for enhancing the sustainability and resiliency of the facility.
“Today’s announcement reflects our ongoing and determined progress toward the transformation of Newark Liberty International Airport,” said New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. “Well on its way to transitioning from vision to reality, this overhaul will produce the world-class facilities befitting of one of the most pivotal transportation hubs in the world. By selecting internationally renowned firms Arup and SOM to oversee the Newark vision plan, the Port Authority has demonstrated its intent to help Newark Liberty reach its maximum potential for the benefit of all New Jersey residents and visitors.”
Arup and SOM will analyse the airport’s existing capacity and provide a comprehensive framework to accommodate expected passenger and cargo growth through 2065. The two firms will oversee architectural, planning, engineering, and business development services for Newark Liberty, while factoring in the short- and long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the airport’s travel volumes and customer demands as part of the planning process.
“We are excited for the opportunity to collaborate with the Port Authority to position Newark Liberty International Airport as a global gateway for New Jersey and the tri-states area,” said Tom Kennedy, Arup project director and Americas east aviation leader. “The Arup team, along with SOM and more than 20 other firms, including many from the Newark and Elizabeth area, is committed to supporting the Port Authority in creating a model for a sustainable and community focused hub that can help reduce our impact on the climate, and at the same time foster economic growth for a more resilient future.”
The planners will also look beyond the airport proper, seeking ways to increase the economic value of the airport to the region by maximising job creation and economic opportunities in Newark, Elizabeth, and throughout the Port District.
In addition, they will develop strategies for more operationally efficient parking facilities, road access and the potential creation of new Ground Transportation Center (GTC) facilities to meet current and future needs. Experts hired to conduct the study will also be asked to identify new cutting-edge technology resources to improve the customer experience and wayfinding capabilities.
Newark Liberty is undergoing an airport-wide transformation, with three major projects underway totalling about $5.3bn in public and private investment. Among these is the new Terminal A, scheduled to open later this year.
Image: Arup
