The Federal Aviation Administration approved Orlando International’s (MCO) request to construct an intermodal center and people mover connection to that facility and a future airport expansion.
The approval allows the airport to generate $396 million through passenger revenues collected for this project, says Congressman John Mica, R-Fla.
The center will be constructed south of the current main terminal.
“This will be one of the most significant transportation and development projects of the next decade,” Mica says. “Combined with Gov. Rick Scott’s commitment of $214 million and other revenues paid by those who will use the facility in the future, the approval of this plan will prepare and equip our region for business, tourism and commercial activity for decades to come.”
Phil Brown, executive director of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, called the decision a major step in building the transportation hub for Central Florida.
“With this approval and the authorized funding from the state Department of Transportation, we will be able to proceed with capital improvement plans to meet expected future growth needs in the region.”
The projects also reportedly lays the groundwork for a new south terminal, which would cost an additional $1 billion to build.
The authority voted in October to put in motion a plan aimed at nearly doubling capacity at MCO from 24 million to 45 million annually. In addition to the automated people mover and multi-modal connections, the $1.1 billion project includes construction of a 3,500-space parking garage and several enhancements to current facilities, including a ticket lobby, baggage-handling areas, airfield improvements and ground transportation upgrades.
“Our philosophy has always been to plan for the future and implement strategies that make financial sense,” Brown said at the time. “Our overall goal is to provide an efficient facility by phasing in projects over time and securing funding, while limiting the impact on the traveling public.”
