FRESNO, CA (KMJ) – Officials from Fresno Yosemite International Airport discuss the possibility of new air carriers flying into the Valley, as it kicks off historic facility expansion.
Branded FATforward, the multi-year, multi-phased program includes $115 million in parking and terminal expansions, which will also enhance the airport experience for travelers and guests.
The recently completed Fresno Yosemite International Airport Master Plan Update confirmed the need for expansion based on current and forecasted passenger growth.
Since the Great Recession the Airport has experienced 45 percent growth in passenger traffic and each year continues to outpace prior years.
Fresno Yosemite International Airport Director of Aviation Kevin Michael says it will add new gates for both domestic and international flights as well as a new three-level 900 space parking garage.
He says it’s all being done with an eye toward future and the potential to entice additional air carriers to fly into the Valley.
The FATforward expansion program will include the following components:
• Construction of a three-level parking garage with a total of 900 covered stalls
• Enhanced parking options such as covered and economy parking
• New International Arrivals facility to accommodate the growing volume of passenger arrivals
• Expanded outbound baggage facilities for increased capacity
• Expanded security checkpoint to support efficient passenger screening and equipment
• New upper level concourse in the existing terminal with two dual-use passenger bridges to facilitate domestic and international boarding
• Added tenant operations and concession space
“FATforward is a significant and necessary undertaking for the Airport as the facility is simply bursting at the seams and in need of increased capacity to support current and future domestic and international air travel,” said Director of Aviation Kevin Meikle. “The expansion program will provide a world-class transportation facility capable of meeting the demands of the region and serve as a convenient, friendly airport with the best traveler amenities for years to come.”
FATforward construction is expected to begin in early 2021, following environmental studies and design, with the new facilities operational by the fall of 2022.
The expansion program, which will be funded by Airport revenue sources, is anticipated to generate 1,220 direct, induced and indirect jobs and $182 million in economic activity.
Click to listen to the report by KMJ’s Ruth Michaels:
