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Recent Developments at the Northwest Arkansas National Airport
New Terminal Modernization Project Gains Momentum
The Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) has been at the forefront of significant modernization efforts, with a million terminal renovation project currently underway. This project, designed by Hight Jackson Associates, includes a new terminal facade, lobby, elevators, escalators, and stairwells. The installation of curtain walls and glass at the front of the terminal is considered a major milestone, allowing the space to be enclosed. As per the latest updates, heavy construction activity is expected to advance quickly over the next month, moving into the next phase of the project. The project’s construction began in March 2024 and is slated for completion by 2025[3].
Additional Infrastructure Projects
Apart from the terminal renovation, other significant projects are also in progress. One of these is the conversion of the first floor of the parking deck to public parking spaces. This 3,676 project, handled by Nabholz, will add approximately 370 public parking spaces and is expected to be completed within 10 weeks. The first floor was previously dedicated to rental car operations, and the four-story deck originally had 1,489 parking spaces when it opened in 2018[3].
Plans for a New Control Tower and Communications Center
The XNA Board of Directors has also approved the construction of a new control tower and communications center. The 141-foot-tall control tower will be built by Crossland Construction, with a total project cost not exceeding .57 million, including a 5% contingency. The design team for the tower includes AJT Engineering, Garver, and Hight Jackson. The communications center will be designed by Garver and WER Architecture, with construction costs capped at .58 million, also including a 5% contingency. Both projects are expected to be completed by fall 2025[3].
Gallery and Monument Sign Installations
Other ongoing projects include the replacement of the moving walkway with a lounge, workspaces, and a children’s area. Additionally, a gallery dedicated to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is being added near the terminal entrance. A monument sign is also being installed near the terminal entrance, further enhancing the overall airport experience for travelers[3].
Future Developments
The airport master plan includes plans for development along the west side of the runway and a proposed new turf runway. These developments aim to meet the growing demand for air travel in the region and ensure that XNA remains a premier airport in Northwest Arkansas[4].
As the airport continues to expand and modernize, it is clear that breaking ground on these various projects is a top priority for the new communications and airport heads, ensuring that XNA remains a hub for both passengers and businesses alike.
Key Updates:
– Terminal Renovation: A million project to modernize the terminal facade, lobby, elevators, escalators, and stairwells.
– Parking Deck Conversion: The first floor of the parking deck is being converted to public parking spaces, adding 370 spots.
– New Control Tower: A 141-foot-tall control tower with a budget of .57 million.
– Communications Center: A new communications center with a budget of .58 million.
– Gallery and Sign Installations: Replacement of the moving walkway with lounges and children’s areas, and the addition of a Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art gallery.
– Future Developments: Plans for a new turf runway and development along the west side of the runway.
These projects reflect the commitment of the airport authorities to enhancing the overall passenger experience and ensuring that XNA remains a leader in aviation infrastructure in Northwest Arkansas.
