Sacramento International Airport (SMF) has broken ground on the first project in its $1.3 billion SMForward renovation program: a pedestrian walkway connecting Terminal B to Concourse B. The $140 million walkway will connect passengers through a sky bridge with moving sidewalks, escalators and elevators constructed by SMF building partner Balfour Beatty, and will also feature three public art installations. Expected to open in late 2025, the walkway is funded by $33 million in grant funds through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) as well as a federal loan through the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) and airport revenue bonds.
“This is the first project of our $1.3 billion SMForward program and the culmination of years of planning and creativity,” said Cindy Nichol, director of Sacramento County Department of Airports. “By transforming how people experience travel, we’re enhancing our community’s connection to the region and the world, boosting our economy and improving our quality of life.”
“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver for Sacramento County,” added Representative Ami Bera. “I am proud to have helped secure crucial grant funding to modernize Sacramento International Airport and help flyers get to their destinations safely and more efficiently. I’ll continue to work with my colleagues in Congress to ensure this landmark law continues to rebuild and strengthen our region’s infrastructure.”
“With passenger numbers on track to break records again this year, this project is essential to meeting the demands of today and tomorrow,” added Sacramento County supervisor and chair Patrick Kennedy. “By expanding our Airport’s capacity and enhancing the passenger journey, Sacramento County’s Department of Airports is ensuring our region remains a top choice for travelers and businesses alike.”
“This walkway, with two sky bridges and a hub, is built with the future in mind,” added Phil Serna, Sacramento County supervisor. “They will provide SMF’s passengers a flexible portal that can connect to a future concourse to meet our growing region’s need for air travel for decades to come.”
