Tampa International Airport (TPA) has opened an expanded security checkpoint at Airside A. The updated facility — which originally opened in 1995 and was built prior to the establishment of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) — now boasts 20,560 additional square feet to the security checkpoint as well as new computed tomography machines, which do not require travelers to remove shoes or electronics from luggage during screening. The $65.1-million project, funded almost entirely with bonds and $525,000 in FDOT grants, was built by Boston-based design-build firm Suffolk Construction in partnership with consulting firm AECOM. The two firms also worked on the expansion of the airport’s Airside E TSA checkpoint, which opened in March.
“This is yet another very important investment that TPA has made to keep the passenger journey as seamless and stress-free as possible,” said Smitha Radhakrishnan, TPA’s executive vice president of planning and development and maintenance. “Like the security screening area expansion at Airside E, we took great care to design a space that was open, well-lit, uses the latest technology, and creates a welcoming environment for our travelers as they make their way through our airport.”
“TSA continues to see record passenger volume at Tampa International Airport’s security checkpoints and has been working closely with the airport to prepare for future growth,” said Kirk Skinner, TPA’s TSA federal security director. “The expansion of the airside checkpoints allows us space to add new technology that improves both security and efficiency.”
“Suffolk is incredibly proud to celebrate the completion of Phase One at Tampa International Airport,” added Sam Sleiman, executive vice president of national transportation at Suffolk. “Despite the challenges posed by two major hurricanes, our dedicated team demonstrated strength and resilience, working closely with TPA and the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority to ensure these spaces were delivered on time and on budget. This achievement underscores our commitment to collaboration and innovation, and our steadfast dedication to excellence.”
