Lambert begins major renovation program
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Lambert-St. Louis International Airport officially marked the beginning of a major renovation campaign Tuesday morning. Director Richard Hrabko announced the first projects in the Airport Experience Program, totaling $16.9 million in improvements, are set to begin later this month with the interior restoration of the Main Terminal’s historic domes.
The second project is the complete replacement of Lambert’s Main Terminal in-bound baggage system, with installation scheduled to begin in early 2009. That project will include all new carousels and oversize luggage retrieval systems. The third project is the makeover of Lambert’s roadway signage program to improve directional messaging while reducing the number of signs for airport motorists. The installation of the new signs should also begin in early 2009.
Lambert is also moving forward on the next stage for other projects that are part of Airport Experience Program. Architectural, engineering and other design work will now proceed for renovations to the Main Terminal Ticketing Hall, lower level and concourses. Designers are tasked with finding the most economical ways to improve ticketing operations, security checkpoints and restrooms, while upgrading flooring, ceiling and wall coverings to improve the overall experience for airport users. Scheduling of these projects will not be determined only after the design phase is completed.
The Airport Experience Program allows for the least amount of disruptions for operations and the comfort of our airport users. This multi-phase approach also allows Lambert to evaluate the projects to fit the current economic conditions as it moves through its list of priorities.
“Record high oil prices and a major turndown in the economy have led to concerns about the volatility and viability of the commercial air service. Lambert is not immune from these issues and will take a careful and conservative approach as we proceed with these projects, said Hrabko, before a crowd of airport commissioners, supporters and passengers. “A careful analysis has determined we have the ability to begin these improvements for the Main Terminal and remain fiscally responsible. And we will analyze each future project and make assessments at every stage of the program.”
During the kickoff event, Director Richard Hrabko detailed Lambert’s commitment to improve the facilities and create a better passenger experience. He spoke in front of a construction wall mural in the Main Terminal that highlights the great history of Lambert Airport, which includes some photos that have never been made public before.
Passengers and airport users are already seeing improvements and construction related to Lambert’s new agreement with HMSHost. It is investing $16 million ($13 million by 2011) to introduce more local and upscale dining venues. Three new concepts are now under construction in the Main Terminal. Local favorite, The Pasta House Co., will open in the lower level in the fall of 2008. Brioche Dorée Café and Missouri Vineyards, a new wine bar concept are scheduled to open in early 2009 in the Ticketing Hall of the Main Terminal.
Other new dining options include Mosaics Tapas Fusion, which has been named one of top restaurants in St. Louis; Fitz’s Root Beer; Baja Fresh and a new Freshëns. The construction schedules and opening dates for those venues will be determined at a later date.
