The City of Albuquerque and Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) this week announced plans for an $85 million terminal upgrade that will include an expansion of its food, beverage and retail offerings.
The planned project includes three major components – relocating the TSA screening checkpoint north towards the escalators; modernizing the ABQ fire suppression, HVAC, plumbing, mechanical, electrical infrastructure and lighting; and improving the airport concessions program.
“The Sunport is the gateway to our city and our state, and a renovation of this magnitude to the infrastructure of the building and the area where travelers spend most of their time is long overdue,” said Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller. “With this project, we are continuing to drive forward and improve the safety and ease of the traveler experience from the curb to the gate.”
The current ABQ concessions program layout was developed pre-9/11 and has not seen any significant changes or improvements. Moving the TSA checkpoint forward will create a 24 percent larger post-security footprint, allowing for additional amenities in the area of the terminal where passengers need it most. As part of the redevelopment, the Sunport hopes to reach new audiences by hosting outreach events for area restaurateurs and retailers to learn about doing business with the airport.
“While we are still in the early stages of this project, we’re eager to be working with experts in airport concessions to reimagine our current offerings and explore the possibilities with a new footprint on the third level,” said Richard McCurley, interim director of aviation for the City of Albuquerque. “The iconic culture and sense of place we all love about the Sunport will be top of mind in the design and planning stages, and we will continue our focus on local businesses and brands unique to Albuquerque and New Mexico.”
ABQ is working with local architecture firm FBT Architects, chosen in 2020 via the City’s RFP process, to conduct surveys and develop initial concepts and designs for the redevelopment. The project will be phased, with construction early next year.
