Lane Closures and Detours Will Slow Airport Traffic
Beginning Monday, October 14, lanes will be narrowed on Terminal Drive, the main roadway in and out of the WRWA terminal area, to begin phase one of a $4.5 million reconstruction project.
While a welcome project to those who visit or work at the airport, traffic will be significantly impacted. The construction zone will begin on Meridian Avenue just north of the S.W. 54th Street bridge at which point Meridian Avenue/Terminal Drive will be narrowed to one lane in each direction. For a period of time, no left turns will be allowed from Meridian Avenue/Terminal Drive to east and west bound S.W. 54th Street. Those vehicles will be detoured to Air Cargo Road via Amelia Earhart Lane. The airport strongly encourages both inbound and outbound drivers to utilize Airport Road in lieu of 54th Street.
Anyone coming to the airport, should be aware there is a strong likelihood of traffic backups and delays particularly in the early morning hours and late afternoon. This should be factored into the time allotted to get to a flight. The airport is recommending travelers allow an additional 15-20 minutes to navigate the construction beyond the one-and half hours already allotted for parking, check-in and the security checkpoint.
All parking facilities will be accessible throughout the project. Signage will be in place to help direct parkers.
Terminal Drive has been deteriorating over the last several years due to an insufficient roadway base to handle the increased vehicular and bus traffic. This full depth repair will result in new asphalt paving for Terminal Drive. The entire project is divided into three phases and expected to last for eight months. A map is attached depicting the roadway closures and detours.