Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Terminal Upgrade topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Beaufort County airport readies new terminal, accepts $1 million state allocation
Summary
Airport officials reported near-complete terminal work and systems testing, told the board a May 1–2 opening is likely, and the board unanimously approved accepting a $1,000,000 special allocation from South Carolina Aeronautics to support phase 2 terminal improvements.
Airport officials said the new terminal is nearing readiness and the board moved to secure funding for follow-on work. Steve, speaking for airport staff, said contractors completed jet-bridge test fits, a new TSA screening lane has been installed, and interior furnishings are being placed ahead of an anticipated May 1–2 opening.
The board voted unanimously to accept a $1,000,000 special allocation from the South Carolina Aeronautics Commission to be reserved for terminal phase 2 improvements. Steve described the allocation as “a special allocation” and said the board will receive the full $1,000,000 up front rather than through reimbursement. “This is a 100% entitlement special allocation,” he said.
Why it matters: The board and staff said phase 2 will cover systems that were not part of the first construction phase, including baggage handling and other expensive mechanical systems that Steve estimated at about $47,000,000 for the full phase. Those systems, and jet bridges, are the principal drivers of the overall cost estimate.
Board members asked staff about the opening date and contingency planning. Steve said the contractor currently projects May 1 or May 2 for the terminal side opening but cautioned that final systems and supply-chain items could change that timing. “They’re hard at work making sure all these systems are tidied up and cleaned up,” he said.
Other upgrades noted in the report include a new uAvionics radar display in the tower approved by the FAA and temporary parking gates with tag readers to enable paid parking at the terminal; staff said options will allow validated short-term access for pickups and deliveries.
The board authorized the chair to accept the state funds and to proceed with the recommended administrative steps. The motion to accept the $1,000,000 allocation passed unanimously.
