Portland International Airport (PDX) unveiled its expansive new main terminal this week in an event headlined by Governor Tina Kotek. The upgrade represents a significant advancement in the airport's infrastructure, designed to cater to the increasing number of travelers and underscore a commitment to sustainable development. Governor Kotek, present at the grand opening, expressed her enthusiasm about the terminal's potential, affirming, "This beautiful space greets visitors the Oregon way, with sustainable materials, energy efficiency, and resilient design. I am confident it will meet the needs of our growing region," according to an official press release.

The renovation and expansion venture, encompassing about 1,000,000 square feet of space, aims to double the capacity of PDX. To substantially reduce the airport's carbon footprint and energy consumption, the newly constructed terminal is equipped with advanced technology, including a ground-source heat pump expected to reduce the use of fossil fuels by 95 percent significantly.

One of the most distinctive features of the new terminal is its Oregon-sourced timber ceiling, which adds an element of local flavor and authenticity. The emphasis on using native materials extends beyond aesthetic choices; almost three-quarters of the wood used for the project is certified by the Forest Stairship Council (FSC) or procured from lands managed under ecological forestry practices.

Additionally, 30 percent of the timber can be traced back directly to its forest of origin. Governor Kotek highlighted this connection to local and traditional sources in her statement, pointing out the importance of these ties, "All wood from the project was sourced within 300 miles of the airport,” while mentioning that some of the wood even comes from tribal sovereign lands, an official Oregon government newsroom post revealed.