The Port of Seattle, operators of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), joined with Alaska Airlines this week in opening the first phase of the North Satellite Modernization Project, featuring eight additional gates, new concessions options and the newest Alaska Airlines lounge.
The 255,000 square-foot expansion is part of an overall project that costs $658.3 million and includes open spaces with windows providing natural light, and ample gate seating with plenty of outlets for charging smartphones and other electronics.
The concession options include an airport location of Seattle’s well-known Skillet restaurant, the locally-owned Caffe D’Arte, Bambuza Vietnam Kitchen and travel retailer The New Stand. The expansion will also include a soon-to-open nursing station with a spa-inspired design and other high-end finishes.
“We are now headed into the future with a stunning facility that improves the passenger experience with more space, light, and services,” says Stephanie Bowman, Port of Seattle commission president. “Built by Pacific Northwest businesses and residents, this project brings economic opportunities in construction as well as for airport dining and retail businesses, including small, local and disadvantage entrepreneurs.”
At 15,800 square feet, the new Alaska Airline lounge is the largest of the three’s lounges the carrier has at the airport and offers stunning views of the airfield and Olympic Mountains, a grand fireplace and food & dining options that include local craft brews, Pacific Northwest inspired small plates and custom coffee drinks.
The North Satellite expansion is being built and maintained with sustainable construction and operations practices, with 100 percent LED lighting, an efficient cooling and heating system, and rainwater runoff capture technology that supply 750,000 gallons of water annually to airport restrooms. It also includes a new installation from artists Jacqueline Metz and Nancy Chew with 20 custom glass panels and a large bronze log.
