The milestone marks a significant step in a series of projects known as PDX Next, aimed at enhancing the infrastructure and capacity of one of the busiest airports in the Pacific Northwest. The primary TCORE Project doubles the size of the ticket lobby and consists of a renovated passenger entry terminal, a new 9-acre mass timber roof over the entire terminal, and new space for local restaurants and shops among other modern features to accommodate growing passenger demand.
“Completing phase one of the Portland International Airport project demonstrates our team’s ingenuity, expertise, and commitment to delivering high-quality construction projects,” said Joe Schneider, senior vice president-account manager at Skanska. “We are proud of the modernisation efforts that will support PDX’s growth and enhance the travel experience for millions of passengers. We hope visitors will be in awe of the mass timber roof, which was a true engineering feat, and stands to be a main attraction in the Pacific Northwest.”
“Hoffman has completed more than a dozen projects at the Portland International Airport over the last 26 years, but the Terminal Core project is a once-in-a-lifetime accomplishment that required outside the box innovation and sheer determination,” said Dave Garske, Hoffman Construction vice president. “Our teams’ ability to bring a cutting-edge mass timber design and construct it in an operating airport is something we’re very proud of, and we hope we’ve helped set PDX up to be the best airport in the US for many years to come.”
Inspired by the Pacific Northwest
Phase one of the project includes seismic resiliency upgrades and replacement of ageing systems and infrastructure. It consists of new airline check-in areas, a new public space with stadium seating and a mezzanine restaurant, 12 new permanent local shops and restaurants, an improved security process, new art exhibits, and new flooring – including the return of PDX’s famous carpet. Inspired by the landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, the new terminal implements biophilic elements. It brings in nature to create a more pleasing experience for travellers through the use of increased natural daylight and green spaces, featuring live trees and foliage throughout the terminal.
“This project is proof of the big things that tradespeople and businesses across our region can achieve together,” said Vince Granato, chief projects officer at the Port of Portland. “The Hoffman Skanska team solved incredibly technical puzzles and did the highest quality work, all while prioritizing safety for the hundreds of people on the job site each day.”
Key achievements during phase one include:
Moving the roof structure into place – Hoffman Skanska Joint Venture prefabricated the 9-acre roof on a prefabrication yard west of the terminal, creating 14 rectangular pieces that were then placed together to create the structure. Those pieces were moved over several nights, using hydraulic jacks to lift and move each to its target altitude of 55ft above ground. A self-propelled modular transport then drove each piece to its destination. Once there, the construction team bolted the rectangular pieces to the top of 23 giant Y columns to hold them up. It took approximately three days to move each piece.
Upholding sustainability – The project will pursue LEED Gold certification. It incorporates a ground-sourcing heating/cooling system designed to reduce the airport’s fossil fuel use by 95%, using an existing aquifer for heating and cooling energy. Sustainable design elements such as energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and improved waste management practices will further reduce the airport’s environmental impact.
Prioritising seismic resilience – Seismic resilience was a priority in the TCORE project. The roof and curtain wall system are designed to move up to 24in in any direction, minimising significant structure damage in a seismic event. The movement is made possible by seismic base isolation bearings that support the roof structure and isolate it. The curtain wall is attached with hinged connections that permit it to slide and pivot relative to the structure below.
Looking ahead
Phase two will begin soon to further expand airport facilities including permanent exit lanes with more escalators down to baggage claim, seating areas to wait for arriving travellers and additional retail space for local shops and restaurants.
Completion of phase two is expected in 2026.
