Hilton Head Island Airport Embarks on First Phase of Terminal Improvements Project

Hilton Head Island Airport is thrilled to announce the commencement of Phase I of its Terminal Improvements Project, aimed at modernizing and enhancing the airport's facilities to meet the growing needs of passengers and the surrounding community. The project is spearheaded by the architecture firm The Wilson Group, headquartered in Charlotte, NC, and will be executed by Edison Foard. The contract, valued at $30,898,447.83, is projected to span two years and is funded through a combination of FAA Grants, SC Aeronautics Grants, State Funds secured by the local delegation and airport revenue.

The scope of this transformative project is expansive, encompassing key elements that will significantly enhance the airport's functionality:

• New TSA Screening Checkpoint: A state-of-the-art TSA screening checkpoint designed to streamline security procedures and improve passenger flow.
• New Boarding Gate Areas: Redesigned boarding gate areas, complete with modern finishes and furniture, creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for travelers.
• Terminal Access Roadway: Enhancements to the terminal access roadway, ensuring a safer entry and exit experience.
• Boarding Bridges: The addition of two new boarding bridges that offer passengers shelter from inclement weather, ensuring a smooth transition between the terminal and aircraft.
• Pedestrian Circulation Improvements: Improvements in pedestrian circulation within the existing building.

The Hilton Head Island Airport Terminal Improvements Project is the result of a collaborative effort that began in 2019 with visioning sessions involving representatives from Beaufort County, the Town of Hilton Head Island, the local business community, airlines, Chambers of Commerce, the airport board, architects and engineers. The design process aimed to align the terminal's development with the needs and aspirations of both customers and tenants. This inclusive approach has garnered widespread support and ensures that the design caters to a variety of constituencies.

The journey towards these terminal improvements has not been without challenges. The initial bid process encountered difficulties due to inflationary pressures stemming from the post-COVID-19 economic landscape, resulting in higher-than-expected prices. However, the project design team, in close collaboration with all stakeholders, regrouped and reorganized the project and a successful re-bid process was carried out.

Projects of this magnitude are engines of local economic growth: projects of this size and scope typically inject approximately three times their contract price back into the local economy. This substantial economic impact is expected to be generated through increased payroll, local tax revenues, materials procurement, real estate transactions and more.

The key benefits of Phase I of the Terminal Improvements Project focus heavily on raising the passenger experience:

• Increased Passenger Space: Expanded boarding gate areas provide passengers with more room to prepare for their journeys.
• Diverse Seating Options: Varied passenger seating options, from traditional standard seating to bar-top work areas cater to the diverse needs of travelers.
• Streamlined Security: A revamped TSA security screening checkpoint ensures smoother and more efficient security processes.
• Cutting-Edge Technology: Integration of advanced technology throughout the terminal enhances the overall passenger experience.
• Weather Protection: New boarding bridges shield passengers from adverse weather conditions, ensuring greater comfort.
• Support for Local Businesses: The project opens new opportunities for small concessionaires.
• Service Animal Relief: A designated pet relief area will be established to accommodate service animals, enhancing the airport's accessibility.

The Hilton Head Island Airport Terminal Improvements Project marks a significant milestone in the airport's evolution, promising to deliver a more comfortable, efficient and welcoming experience for all passengers. As the project takes flight, the airport looks forward to serving its community and visitors with enhanced facilities that reflect the region's dedication to innovation, progress and service.