The Country's Newest Airport Is Right Here In Utah, And It's Much Larger Than Before
By Catherine Armstrong|Published September 20, 2020
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Catherine Armstrong
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Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
If you travel out of state very often, odds are good that you’re familiar with the Salt Lake International Airport. Utah has several small, regional airports, but we have just one international airport, and it typically services 26 million passengers per year.
The original airport was built in 1968, but it was only meant to handle about half as many passengers as it has today. Its original buildings weren’t earthquake-safe, and its security areas were poorly designed to handle the new protocols that came out after the 9/11 tragedy. In short, it was time for a new airport. On September 15th, the public got its first look at the airport’s new terminal and concourse.
As a hub airport, SLC International needed to expand its facilities to allow for the larger planes that carry passengers on international flights. The new airport now covers 8,044 acres (296.7 acres were added with the new facilities).
The new airport is opening in two phases. The first phase was completed in September, 2020; the second phase is slated for completion in 2024.
The project cost $4.1 billion, and was funded with airport funds, passenger and customer facility charges, two airport revenue bonds, and federal grants.
The new parking garage is twice as big as the old one, with 3,600 parking stalls, 4 escalators, 13 elevators, and 4 moving walkways. It's the size of three football fields!
The new terminal is called "The Canyon," and it was inspired by Utah's beautiful slot canyons. The gorgeous art installation that makes up its walls was created by artist Gordon Huether.
You'll find beautiful artwork throughout the new concourse and terminal, even in the restrooms. From the start of the project through February of 2020, 8.3 million labor hours were used to create the brand new facilities.
By the time the entire project is complete, the retail space will have nearly doubled from 25,000 square feet to 45,335 square feet. Restaurants will cover 75,140 square feet. You certainly won't be bored or hungry while waiting for your flight!
Learn how to navigate the new SLC International Airport here.
Read more about the brand new SLC Airport and learn how to navigate it on the airport’s website. You can also see updates on the airport’s Facebook page.
Are you planning to fly in or out of SLC International Airport anytime soon?
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