The Augusta Aviation Commission gave the green light to the next step to expand security checkpoints at Augusta Regional Airport.
Members approved a work authorization of $449,438 for consultant Mead and Hunt for the terminal checkpoint modernization project.
“This is testing. This is everything outside the bounds of the contract is included in this. It is also extra oversight,” explained Elizabeth Giles, Senior Construction Project Manager at the airport. “This is a very technical project. It’s a critical project. It affects every aspect of our operations inside this building. So, it’s imperative that it goes off well and with good communication.”
Herbert Judon, Jr., Airport Executive Director, said this is the expansion of the security checkpoints operated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). This will increase the number of checkpoints from the current two lines to three with TSA supplying the equipment.
Judon told ABD they are looking at the possibility of adding a fourth checkpoint, although the airport would likely have to supply the screening equipment.
“If we really wanted the fourth set of equipment, and they couldn’t provide it, there is a way where we could purchase it and gift it back to them, because it’s their equipment,” he said. “But as of right now, they’re providing the third set of equipment, and I’ll continue to work with them to try to get the fourth.”
Judon said, at least initially, the traveling public won’t see the project as it gets underway.
“I don’t know if it’ll be visible in the building or not, but I want them to start as soon as possible, because it’s almost a yearlong project, and I want it to be complete before Masters 2026,” he said. “So, there could be some movement prior to this Masters. It could be stuff outside in the courtyard, but I do want them to get started.”
Expanding the security checkpoints is one step in the airport’s overall Master Plan for the future. The plan also includes improvements to the airline check-in desks and waiting areas. It also includes modifications to outbound baggage screening and inbound baggage claims. The plan also envisions adding a second story to the terminal building.
Commissioners also approved an improvement project for the rental car access road. Giles said the project will go from the back of the current credit card lot for rental cars, past the maintenance building, and out to exit from the airport.
“What this does is allow the rental car companies, we’re going to put them in this lot, and they’ll have access to the maintenance building without impacting our Loop Road and our customers and adding extra traffic and danger there,” said Giles.
The project will cost just under $600,000. It will include safety striping of the new section of the road and the installation of security lighting. Work will get underway after Masters Week 2025 and will take three months to complete.
Diane Johnston, the airport’s Director of Innovation and Business Development, said this project is the first phase of an overall rental car operation improvement. This first step will move the credit card lot to the return lot. The return lot will be converted to public parking, adding about 40 parking spaces.
