Travelers using Sacramento International Airport's Terminal B will need to adjust their parking strategy as the closest lot to the terminal is set to permanently close come October. As reported by FOX40, this shutdown is paving the way for the construction of a new parking garage expected to house more than 5,500 spaces, greatly expanding the current capacity. The hourly lot, which is currently home to 673 spaces just a stone's throw away from the airline booths, will be replaced by a structure touted as the "number one opportunity" to enhance the airport experience according to county officials.
The absence of the hourly lot is to temporarily add inconvenience to those accustomed to the short-term parking option, but the project promises long-term benefits. In a statement obtained by KCRA, SMF spokesperson Scott Johnston expressed excitement for the upcoming garage, featuring amenities such as electric vehicle charging stations, parking guidance systems, reservations, and public art installations. "In its place, we're excited to be building a 5,500-space parking garage, that will start construction this week," Johnston shared.
With the lot's closure, visitors may be forced to park further away at the garage or daily lot near Terminal A, ensuring a longer journey to Terminal B. Frequent shuttles offered from the East or West Economy Parking Lots aim to alleviate some of the challenges posed by the interim parking situation. While the construction period is estimated at 18 months to two years, airport officials have announced that a new parking lot will open before the holiday season, with hopes of offsetting some of the hourly lot's removal.
The sprawling garage comes with a hefty price tag of nearly $400 million and is part of the airport's overarching $1.3 billion renovation project. According to FOX40, the investment also encompasses the integration of sustainable features like potential solar panels and channels a portion of the funding towards further artistic endeavors at the airport. "We understand that some folks like to park in the hourly lot, and it could be an inconvenience for them. We’re just asking everyone to just be patient," Johnston told KCRA.
