The Port of Seattle has launched its North Satellite Modernization Project, which will expand and renovate the Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA) facility.
The $550 million expansion and renovation will include adding eight new gates with a 240-foot extension of the building to the west, an upper level mezzanine – more than double the existing dining and retail square footage – and introduce a rooftop Alaska Airlines lounge with views of the Olympic Mountains. The phase one expansion is scheduled to be open in 2019, followed by the renovation of the current facility to be open in 2021.
“Passenger needs are changing – back in 1973, when this building was built, no one needed speedy Wi-Fi or power outlets to charge their mobile devices,” said Port of Seattle Commissioner Stephanie Bowman. “This project represents benefits not just for travelers but also for the broader community, including more jobs in construction and airport industries, future opportunities for entrepreneurs in dining and retail businesses, sophisticated building plans to lessen our environmental impact and an artistic vision that our community can be proud of.”
The expansion comes on the heels of six years of record-breaking passenger traffic. In 2016 passenger numbers rose to 45.7 million, an 8 percent increase.
SEA says the North Satellite Modernization is an “unprecedented” working arrangement between the port and Alaska Airlines, SEA’s largest airline and the sole tenant of the North Satellite. Alaska is working with the port with the goal of improving the flying experience from airport drop-off to departure. Related projects in the modernization program already completed are refurbished satellite baggage systems servicing the north satellite and new Concourse C exterior walkways for a package of work totaling $606 million. Alaska is set to spend $41 million on the interior of the lounge, additional workspace and other various improvements. Additional enhancements by Alaska Airlines include the roll out of the new look and branding in the ticketing and gate areas and a newly painted maintenance hangar.
