Gresham Smith-Designed Parking Garage at AVL Recognized by SEC-AAAE

Gresham Smith announces that Asheville Regional Airport’s (AVL) new parking garage was awarded the Southeast Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives’ (SEC-AAAE) 2019 Commercial Airport Project of the Year – Architectural Project. The parking garage supports growth as well as creates an iconic feature for the airport.

“We are proud to have this project chosen as the Commercial Airport Project of the Year – Architectural Project because it recognizes AVL’s commitment to the passenger experience. Before this project, parking at the airport was scarce and we needed more room to service rental car customers,” said Lew Bleiweis, A.A.E., executive director, Greater Asheville Regional Airport Authority. “Not only did Gresham Smith design a highly functional solution, they created a landmark for the airport that pays homage to the region.”

“AVL supported our team in, literally, thinking outside the box. We knew this could be more than simply a concrete parking garage, instead we saw this project as an opportunity to reflect the unique community the airport serves,” commented David L. King, AIA, regional vice president, Gresham Smith. “We value our partnership with the airport and are thrilled to share in this award from SEC-AAAE.”

The garage is constructed of precast concrete that features a relief of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains as well as a nearly 516-foot long super graphic image created from perforated metal that also depicts the surrounding landscape. The 5-story parking garage adds more than 1,300 parking spaces and dedicated space to relocate rental cars. The parking structure connects to the terminal through a steel-framed canopy, providing users with covered access to the centrally-located ticketing lobby and baggage claim.