Chicago officials are looking at plans for a makeover for the city’s #2 airport, aimed at relieving complaints about inadequate facilities and amenities, and above all ending security backups that have been reported as “mile-long.”
Neither the money nor the scope is anything like the planned $4 billion rebuilding of New York’s Laguardia, but it’s expected to deliver a lot of bang for the bucks. Much of the $250 million planned budget would add a large new security area, more parking, and upgraded retail. Chicago’s mayor says the goal is to “provide an improved experience for travelers from the garage to the gate.” The airport, on Chicago’s south side, is a major hub for Southwest, which has 92% of the field’s traffic. Delta is the other major player.
The project has been put out for bids through the end of the year; officials will look them over after the new year, and then bring a final proposal to the Chicago City Council. More details and illustrations HERE in a USA Today article.
Illustration: City of Chicago
