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About the Project
When leaders at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) brought Southwest Airlines and AirTran Airways into Terminal A/B, the security area could not accommodate both airlines. To handle the increased number of passengers, the Maryland Aviation Administration (MAA) sought a solution to meet the airport’s immediate and future needs.
This project was designed to handle larger crowds at the security checkpoint, keep passenger delays low and prepare for future growth. Hensel Phelps built a new nine-lane security checkpoint and created a passenger connector between Concourses B and C to increase capacity and meet required standards. The project added a new 60,000 square foot, two-level passenger connector and renovated 115,000 square feet of the existing terminal. The renovation included an updated airport observation area with a gallery of aviation artifacts and a Youth Art Gallery to showcase artwork from local students.
Since construction occurred while the airport was operational, Hensel Phelps prioritized strict adherence to TSA security guidelines to ensure uninterrupted passenger flow and airport operations. Throughout the project, all entrances, services and amenities remained accessible, preserving the passenger experience. The project was completed on a fast-track schedule in just 339 days.
The project’s first stage focused on opening the new security checkpoint, building temporary walkways for proper access, and finishing the downstairs baggage claim. About 60 days later, the final phase opened all areas of the connector, including new loading docks, restrooms, elevators, moving walkways and lounge space, just in time for the increased summer travelers in June 2013.
Learn how Hensel Phelps delivers complex construction solutions across markets by visiting our Projects Page.
Project Awards
2014
- ABC Excellence in Construction Awards | Merit Award | Category: Heavy/Industrial/Transportation Construction | 2014
- AGC of DC Washington Contractor Awards | Merit Award | Category: Contractors over $400 million | 2014
