Construction has started on the A-gate infill project at the Eugene Airport terminal. Once completed in May 2009, it will create 2400 square feet of additional public use concourse level space, along with 2400 square feet of unfinished ground level storage space for use by the airport.

The 2400 square feet of concourse space will be divided, providing 1200 square feet of much needed additional passenger seating area. The remaining 1200 square feet will allow Emerald City News and Gifts to move into a larger space. The current A-gate area gift shop is very small, but the demand for goods has increased under current security restrictions.

“During a time of strain in the airline industry and uncertainty with the economy, you might wonder why this project is moving forward,” said Eugene Airport Director Tim Doll, A.A.E. “Our airline partners unanimously approved the project because it is needed and it will lower their cost of doing business here.”

The project was bid at $986,545 and is funded from Passenger Facilities Charges (PFC funds) generated from passengers using the airport. These funds have already been collected and set aside for the project and the Federal Aviation Administration has issued the appropriate acknowledgement.

Once built, the A-gate infill project increases the amount of rentable square footage in the terminal building. This lowers the rates and charges for each airline serving the Eugene Airport.