By Adam Allington, KWMU
Springfield, IL – Lambert Airport is scheduled for the largest renovation in the airport's history.
Speaking Sunday, St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay unveiled plans that will see over one-hundred million dollars in upgrades to the airports main terminal, ticketing area and security checkpoints.
"Lambert Airport is the first thing people see when they come into our city and the last thing they see when they leave our city and unfortunately they don't see much," says Slay. "I've been unhappy with the customer experience at Lambert for some time now."
The renovation is expected to be funded through a mix of revenue bonds and passenger facility charges (PFC's), which need to be approved by the F.A.A.
On Sunday St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay, together with Airport Director Kevin Dolliole announced over $105 Million in improvements.
Dolliole says passengers will see a significant roll-out of upgrades and improvements over current facilities.
"They'll see a very significant change within the footprint of the existing facilities," says Dolliole. "They'll see improved access to a security checkpoint, they'll be infrastructure improvement, there's improved curbside operations."
The city recently issued a request for proposals for the design and construction of the project.
Construction on the ticket hall and lobby is expected to be complete by early 2009, with the entire finished by 2012.