USA: Phase Two unveiled for Tampa airport in Hillsborough

While the first stage of the international airport’s construction and renovation master plan is still ongoing, the Hillsborough Country Aviation Authority has revealed on April 27 the second phase.

Located on the western coast of Florida, in the Hillsborough County, the Tampa international airport is undertaking $2.3bn first upgrade three-phase master plan since 1971.

During an open house on April 27, the aviation authority has featured the second part of the project.

At a cost of $543M, Tampa airport’s phase is to mainly include curbside expansion and 17-acre commercial development around the rental car center.

The curbside expansion is to start in 2019 and aims to create new express lanes reserved for passenger without checked luggage.

To begin in 2018, the commercial development would comprise a transit hub, two hotels, an eight-story office, a gas station-convenience store and 20,000 squares feet of restaurants or pet hotel. New connections to regional trail networks are also anticipated.

The phase two completion is planned in 2023.

When achieved, this master plan would allow to serve 34 million passengers annually, being twice more than today.