Kansas City International Airport to break ground on new $1.5 billion terminal

Officials at the Kansas City International Airport (MCI), with partner Edgemoor Infrastructure & Real Estate, will break ground on a new $1.5 billion single terminal on March 25. The project will transform and modernize the current three-terminal layout, which has remained largely unchanged since it opened in 1972, despite nearly tripling its passenger traffic. It is the largest infrastructure project in Kansas City’s history.

The new terminal, designed by the Chicago, Ill.-based Skidmore, Ownings & Merrill (SOM), will feature 1 million square feet of space and 39 gates, the construction of which is projected to create 5,000 jobs. Upon opening in 2023, it will reflect the Kansas City region’s identity as a business, visitor and lifestyle destination in the center of the U.S.

“A modern airport that is attractive to passengers and airlines is an important competitive advantage for any major metropolitan area,” said Tim Cowden, president and CEO of the Kansas City Area Development Council. “KC has a long track record of investing in its cultural assets, major league sports facilities, roads, bridges and mass transit options, and a new single terminal at KCI is the next important phase in our region’s growth.”

Additional project highlights include close-in parking; a two-level curbside pickup and drop-off area; expanded flight options and waiting areas at each gate to accommodate an increased number of passengers and larger aircraft; and a revamped, first-rate travel experience with more post-security amenities.

Groundbreaking festivities will be held at the airport’s Terminal A parking structure at 2 p.m. Central time. Key officials, representatives and partners will be on hand for the event – which will kickstart construction activities, including the demolition of Terminal A.