Representatives from San Diego County Regional Airport Authority have held a groundbreaking celebration for the new Terminal 1 at San Diego International.
The new T1 project includes the replacement of the outdated structure, improvements to the airfield, enhanced transportation connectivity to the airport, and a new facility for the Airport Authority Administration.
The complex will feature pre- and post-security passenger connectors to Terminal 2, a new parking plaza that will provide up to 5,200 parking spaces, an expansive security checkpoint with 13 lanes, an outdoor patio area post-security, up to two airline or common-use lounges or clubs, and a children’s play area.
A significant project feature is a three-lane on-airport access roadway that will take traffic from Laurel Street directly to the airport, reducing 45,000 vehicles a day on neighbouring Harbor Drive. A dual-level roadway and curb front will also be integrated, which will separate arriving and departing passenger traffic with an elevated departures roadway and curbside check-in.
The project will also incorporate energy and water conservation and clear air initiatives. Electric vehicle charging infrastructure, a bicycle and pedestrian path on Harbor Drive, bicycle parking spaces, airfield improvements resulting in reduced greenhouse gas emissions, an underground fuel-delivery system, and a storm water capture and reuse system are included in the plans.
The new T1, along with the rest of the airport, will be powered by 100% renewable, carbon-free electricity.
Kimberly Becker, president and CEO of the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, said: “Our goal has always been to ensure that San Diego International Airport provides a first-class experience for our customers, and the new T1 will ensure we continue to do that for decades to come.
“Today’s ground-breaking is the culmination of years of planning and collaboration with stakeholders and the greater San Diego community. This is truly your airport and I’m so excited that this day has finally come.”
The airport has an economic impact of $12bn on the region, with a the T1 project having a budget of $3.4bn. It is estimated the project will create between 15,000 to 20,000 construction-related jobs.
