Ohio Governor Mike DeWine led the groundbreaking ceremony for a $2 billion new terminal at the John Glenn Columbus International Airport. The $2 billion project will enhance the passenger experience at the airport and provide for the growth expected in Central Ohio in the coming decades.

“Today is a big day for the State of Ohio. Airports are so vital and important not only to the quality of life of the people, but also frankly to the economic development of the state,” said Governor Mike DeWine.

“When companies are coming to Ohio, one thing they always look for is the airport. Are they going to be able to fly to places they want to fly to, and how convenient is the airport?’

Governor DeWine said “this is a major investment that we are going to see unfold over the next three to four years. We are very optimistic of the future of the State of Ohio as this airport will be able to meet expectations.”

“With this project, we have the extraordinary opportunity to showcase the commerce of central Ohio,” said Joseph Nardone, President & CEO of Columbus Regional Airport Authority.

“This terminal is more than a gateway for travels, it also makes Ohio home. It is a springboard to connect and grow. It is a hub of activities that touches lives, big and small.”

Expected to be ready by 2029, the new terminal will have the following features:

Improved terminal approach

• Passengers will have access to the terminal through two curbside levels (departures and arrivals) and via a pedestrian bridge linking the Ground Transportation Center which will include the Rental Car Facility and a new 5,000-space parking garage.
• This new approach improves safety for passengers alleviating the need to cross several lanes of traffic to access cars, rideshares, and pickups.

Smoother process getting to the gate

• One centralized security checkpoint, close to the entrance, will streamline the screening process, allowing passengers to quickly proceed to their gates.
• The terminal’s 36 gates, including two international gates, will center around a light-filled central marketplace that emphasizes local food and beverage options.
• Like the Midwest horizon, the high ceilings and open floor plan allow for sweeping views of the airfield and unobstructed views of most gates that enable intuitive wayfinding.
• The close proximity of the gates to the marketplace provides a relaxing place to wait for flights while maintaining gate visibility and shorter walking distances to gates.

Accessible amenities

• Multiple sensory rooms for passengers will provide a calmer, more controlled environment for passengers who need it. The rooms will feature adjustable lighting, sound dampening, and soothing decor to create a tranquil atmosphere separate from the bustling concourse.
• Family restrooms with companion care capabilities for passengers who are traveling with individuals who have special needs.
• Pet relief areas inside the terminal will be specially designed for pets avoiding the need for passengers to leave the building to care for their pet.
• Multiple nursing rooms, both pre- and post-security will provide private, comfortable spaces for nursing mothers.

Sustainable features

• Energy-efficient smart glass will self-adjust the tint to provide natural light and reduce glare creating a more comfortable environment while bolstering the airport’s sustainability.
• 250 electric vehicle chargers to meet the growing demand for charging stations.
• LED fixtures throughout the building.

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