Start 1: Indianapolis International Airport Expansion
Cost: $1 billion

A terminal is going up at the Indianapolis International Airport on a wedge of land between the airport's existing two main runways.

The $350 million, 1-million-sq.-ft. terminal is part the overall airport expansion program. Work is slated for completion in 2008.

The project is an overall upgrade to the airport facilities that includes the construction of a new Federal Aviation Administration Air Traffic Control Tower, along with significant roadwork within the airport.

Approximately 4 mi. of Interstate 70 were relocated in the airport's immediate vicinity, and new highway interchanges were constructed to serve the facility.

Significant Site Work

Among the project issues are preliminary grading and site work that will include moving more than 1 million cu. yds. of soil from existing stockpiles and on-site excavation, said James Grass of Indianapolis-based Executive Media, the airport's representative.

Work has begun on the 300-ft.-high control tower and adjacent control building, and they are scheduled to become operational in 2005.

A new 2,800-space parking garage will be situated near the terminal. The terminal building will feature a central civic plaza, which will be circular in shape to reflect Monument Circle, Indianapolis' central public space. It can be used to stage community events and house retail businesses.

The terminal includes a ticketing facility, central passenger security area, baggage claim, administrative offices and up to 40 gates designed to accommodate narrow- and wide-body aircraft.

The building is a conceptual design that features a 75-ft.-high, 40-gate main terminal constructed of glass and steel with two concourses extending out on either side.

Terminal construction is slated to begin in spring or summer 2005.

Elements of the terminal design are "green," including an energy-efficient stainless steel and elastomeric membrane roof and as well as skylights to allow daylight illumination.

The terminal's between-the-runways site will reduce plane taxi times and a reduction in emissions and fuel consumption.

The building was planned prior to the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Since then, steps have been taken to meet the new security requirements established by the new Transportation Security Administration.

Increased security is already playing a role in the project. A remote goods and suppliers facility will keep large trucks away from the terminal site until security personnel have screened them.

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