The Houston City Council approved additional funding for the Terminal Redevelopment Program (ITRP) at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), set to be completed in 2025.
At $1.458 billion, the project is the largest capital improvement program in the history of Houston Airports. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, global supply chain issues, socio-economic issues and a volatile market, the program’s budget has only increased by 6.5% from the original baseline budget of $1.36 billion, the airport said.
The project includes a refresh of the existing Terminal D, expansion of Terminal D with a new D-West Pier and a new International Central Processor.
“Council’s approval and support is a critical step forward for the IAH Terminal Redevelopment Program,” said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports, which oversees IAH and Houston Hobby Airport (HOU). “Change is coming to Bush Airport. This funding will ensure Houston Airports continue the contracts necessary to get ITRP to the finish line, which is scheduled for 2025.”
The completion of the Terminal D-West Pier will provide six new international-capable widebody aircraft gates that can also be converted to 10 narrowbody aircraft gates. The International Central Processor ticketing hall will allow United Airlines to move its Terminal E passenger processing to the new facility, improving the overall customer experience and traffic flow. An improved baggage handling system and more dedicated lanes along the Departures and Arrivals curbs will also accommodate passenger growth.
“Once complete, ITRP will be a game-changing investment for Houston as it welcomes millions more visitors through a world-class facility,” said Szczesniak. “Houston Airports hold strong as a primary economic engine for the City of Houston, generating $36.4 billion in annual economic impact for the region. Our new terminal is only anticipated to widen our crucial impact on Houston’s economy.”
