FAQs

See below for answers to common questions about the transformation of our airport. If your question is not answered on this page, feel free to contact us and we will be happy to provide more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the Airport need to relocate and replace the current terminal building?

The proposed project stems from several problems with the existing passenger terminal building. The existing passenger terminal building does not meet current FAA standards related to runway and taxiway separation. It is also obsolete in terms of contemporary passenger terminal design and efficient utilization standards. The relocated passenger terminal building will meet all current FAA standards, passenger demand, and building requirements as well as improve utilization and operational efficiency of the terminal building.

Where will the relocated terminal building be located?

The new site will be to the east of where the current building is located. The main entrance to the new terminal would move to the intersection of Garden Road and Olmstead Drive. The new location will be more convenient to use compared to the current terminal, but at a safer distance from the runways and with more passenger amenities, less crowding, better curb front access and more places to wait in comfort.

Will the relocated terminal be easy to use?

MRYs most popular attributes are convenience and ease of use. Close-in self-parking, quick transition from ticketing through TSA to boarding of aircraft, and convenient access to ground transit and rental cars, are just some of the features that will be reproduced or improved in the new building. A relocated terminal will provide an even higher level of safety and security; retain the friendly, accessible and easy-to-use attributes of the current terminal; have no more than the current 5 passenger gates; be built without use of local tax dollars; meet current FAA safety standards for distance from the runway; and provide improved amenities.

What about handicapped access and accessibility?

Any new terminal will comply with the most current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations and provide the maximum amount of accessibility, including access up to the door of the aircraft through a jet bridge.

How large will the building be?

The relocated building will be approximately the same size as the current terminal of 69,000 square feet and will provide a safer airport terminal with added amenities that are typically found in modern airports, including:

• Variety of concessions
• Improved restrooms
• Wider corridors and more spacious waiting areas
• Up to date facilities for Transportation Security Administration (TSA) passenger and baggage security screenings
• Improved ticket lobby and airline check-in and baggage drop-off facilities
• A roomier baggage claim area
• Fully integrated designs for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility

Who will pay for the relocated terminal?

Airports are funded through fees and charges by the passengers, airlines, and tenants who use the facility. Airport funding sources include FAA grants, parking fees, landing fees, rents from concessionaires and other tenants, passenger facility charges, and federal taxes on every airline ticket sold. State and local taxes are not used. No local funds will be used to pay for the relocated building. It is anticipated that the FAA will provide a portion of the overall cost.

What are the economic benefits from the Airport to the Region?

According to an economic benefits study, the Airport generates more than $302 million annually in economic benefits for the region from Airport activity. There are currently more than 2,400 people who work at the Airport.