Salt Lake City International Airport is the 25th busiest airport in North America, and during 2016 it serviced nearly 24 million passengers. Now the airport, which consists of two terminals, five concourses and 71 gates is undergoing a major redesign. Work has just begun with the help of thousands of construction workers, civil and structural engineering experts, architects and planners. We’re proud to announce that our structural engineering team is also part of this process. Here’s an overview of the redesign as a whole, as well as a look at the work our structural engineering team is doing.

Salt Lake City airport – a brief history

Salt Lake City airport has been around in some form since 1933. That is when the first terminal and airport administration building was erected. Expansions have occurred during the 60′s, 80′s and into the new millennium as the Salt Lake City area has expanded in terms of population and overall size. In its 80-year plus history, SLC airport has gained a reputation for being one of the most efficient airports in the country and also has a strong record of on-time flights.

The benefits of an airport redesign

As the transportation industry evolves, so too does the need for adequate facilities. Structural engineering analysis has found that current airport buildings do not meet modern earthquake standards. A redesign will also improve operational efficiency, allowing airlines to accommodate passengers while providing a memorable customer service experience. Sustainability is another focus of the redesign project. Not only will updating the structures decrease the airport’s overall carbon footprint, it will also help to cut costs in terms of energy and water usage. These measures will benefit Utah’s natural lands and wildlife for the better.

The phases of the SLC airport redesign

The SLC airport redesign is happening in a series of phases. The completion dates are tentative, but here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

• Phase one – The first phase of the project includes a new parking garage, terminal, and a remodeled South Concourse-West. This portion of the project is expected to wrap up in 2020.
• Phase two – The second phase of the project will focus on an overhaul of North Concourse-West. This is expected to be complete by 2021.
• Phase three – The third phase of the project will focus on remodeling North Concourse-East. This is expected to be complete by 2024.
• Phase four – When the North Concourse expansion and remodels are completed, a tunnel will be dug to connect the South and North Concourses.

The contributions of our Structural Engineering Team

Our structural engineering team has been hard at work assisting Ralph L. Wadsworth Construction at the Salt Lake City airport for nearly two-years. We began surveying the facilities in the fall of 2015, and are still contributing to the project today. Our first assignment was to scan and document all of the features on site, including conduit and steel. These measurements and insights were utilized prior to the pouring of concrete for the new parking structure.

We’ve also been instrumental in ensuring the airport redesign highlights Utah’s beautiful scenery. Before work started, project managers requested that our work showcase the surrounding mountains, trees, and breathtaking views. Our designs included massive, picturesque windows, in addition to two additional highways for pick-ups and drop-offs, that will both ease traffic concerns and give visitors a first-hand view of what our state has to offer.

We couldn’t be more proud of the work that our structural engineering and survey teams have contributed to the work at SLC airport. For over 30-years we have analyzed and designed structures in order to meet our client’s unique structural and foundation challenges. Our clients know that our professionalism and commitment to quality design will give them efficient, cost-effective and incredibly safe structures.

If you could use our assistance on your next project, don’t hesitate to reach out. We want to see you succeed!