Travelers eagerly anticipating the grand opening of the new main terminal at Portland International Airport will have to wait a bit longer. The Port of Portland has announced a three-month postponement, pushing the debut to August instead of the originally planned unveiling next month. According to a KATU report, the delay ensures the new addition is "as PDX-Y as can be," a nod to the distinct character of the local region.
In light of recent concerns, officials at Portland International Airport decided to push back the terminal's opening after narrowly avoiding several incidents that raised eyebrows on safety. "Building stuff you’re proud of takes time — sometimes three months longer than planned," read a news release obtained by The Columbian. The delay will also give standstill construction crews, a three-day pause was caused in February due to a series of near accidents that led to the construction crews, a much-needed breather.
The decision comes as part of a larger vision, the $2 billion PDX Next project, which includes the new terminal and other enhancements. The funding, as detailed by KPIC, is primarily provided by airlines and encompasses the extension of Concourse B, the replacement of Concourse A, the extended Concourse E, as well as the construction of a new transportation plaza and rental car center.
Despite the setback, the airport remains focused on the goal of a state-of-the-art facility that mirrors Portland's unique spirit. As the community is accustomed to things being done a certain Portland way, the additional time, it's hoped, will result in a terminal that lives up to high standards and safety requirements. It has been determined after construction crews took a moment to pause and reassess their surroundings, the safety scares that prompted the delay, it was a necessary step to ensure no corners are cut in the pursuit of excellence.
