Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is expanding, as shovels hit the ground on a $241 million project set to tackle the surge in passenger traffic. "Welcome to Austin-Bergstrom Airport and our groundbreaking for the West Infill project," said AUS CEO Ghizlane Badawi, as per KVUE. The expansion, expected to be completed in 2026, features new security lanes, ticketing counters, and a state-of-the-art baggage system to reduce traveler wait times.

Boasting over 70,000 square feet of added terminal space, the project dubbed the West Infill and TSA Checkpoint 3 Expansion, aims to double the original checkpoint's capability. "It will have six to eight lanes in total, which is more than double the size of the previous checkpoint," Sam Haynes, an airport spokesperson, told KVUE. Haynes also said airport officials are surprised by how quickly Austin has outgrown the existing facility.

The initiative is part of a bigger plan termed 'Journey With AUS,' seeking to keep pace with Austin's burgeoning growth. The city doesn't seem to be taking this massive popularity lying down. Passenger Terminal Today reports that the infrastructure upgrade will also strive for an Austin Energy Green Building (AEGB) 3-star rating, cementing the airport's commitment to both efficiency and sustainability.

Funding for this project comes from a variety of non-local taxpayer sources, including $15.9 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Meanwhile, officials manage the challenge of keeping the airport running smoothly amid construction, already adding two lanes to another checkpoint to offset closures. Ghizlane Badawi emphasized, "We are moving forward with purpose and urgency to ensure that Austin-Bergstrom remains a vital hub for travelers," in a statement obtained by Passenger Terminal Today.

Local traveler Jeremy Hunt expressed his support to KVUE: "Please, yes. as soon as possible." Recounting the airport's busier days and reflecting on his first impression 15 years ago that the airport was too small, Hunt welcomes any development that can accommodate Austin's size.