Spokane International Airport has a $130 million reconstruction project in the works to accommodate passenger growth that will expand terminals, remodel security checkpoints and add a central baggage claim.

The airport board last week approved a $2.8 million design contract with Architectural Alliance International for the Terminal Renovation and Expansion Project, known as TREX. That project includes building a central baggage claim area between terminals with five baggage carousels and a new terminal A/B security screening checkpoint. There will also be a greeter hall, airport operations center and a curbside canopy that connects the terminals.

The terminal C check-in hall will also be expanded to include a new security screening checkpoint, greeter hall and a two-story gate area. Airport officials say the current design of two separate terminal buildings is an operational challenge because passengers entering from terminal C have to walk a long distance to the rental car area. A two-story, widened corridor connecting terminal C with the baggage claim hall and rental car area will allow space for carts.

Because the airport experienced five years of projected growth in 10 months officials decided to expedite the TREX project, with construction expected to start in 2019. The airport added service to five cities last year and additional security screening checkpoints are needed to meet passenger demand. The airport expects to accommodate over 3,461 inbound and outbound flights in April, which is 551 more flights than this month last year. One additional lane will be added to screening checkpoints this summer.

TREX will be paid for through a combination of bonds and revenue from airport passenger facility charges.

In addition to the future airport expansion, Tharaldson Hospitality Management is planning construction this spring of a 110 room SpringHill Suites by Marriott north of terminal A/B.

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