Firm providing lead tunnel design, engineering services for O’Hare 21 ORDNext Program
CHICAGO (Aug. 19, 2025) – HNTB congratulates Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) on officially beginning construction of Concourse D at O’Hare International Airport. Marked by a ceremonial groundbreaking, this milestone represents a major step in delivering the ORDNext program under O’Hare 21 — a transformative expansion and modernization initiative that will redefine the passenger experience at one of the world’s busiest airports.
As part of this historic redevelopment, HNTB is providing lead tunnel design and engineering services for a tunnel system that will connect the new O’Hare Global Terminal to Concourse D and Concourse E to the west. The consolidated tunnel will include dedicated cells for a future automated people mover system, a secure pedestrian corridor, a sterile corridor for international arrivals at Concourse D and a tunnel cell that will house the baggage handling system conveyance equipment.
“We’re proud to support Chicago Department of Aviation in launching this pivotal phase of the ORDNext program,” said Albert Sosa, PE, HNTB’s Chicago office leader and senior vice president. “Concourse D and the supporting tunnel infrastructure represent a bold step forward in modernizing O’Hare and enhancing connectivity across the terminal campus. It’s exciting to see construction begin on a project that will shape the future of air travel in Chicago and the aviation industry for generations to come.”
The tunnel structure is designed to support the aircraft and dead loads above its 121-foot width while waterproofing and drainage systems will keep the interior dry. Tunnel ventilation systems are designed for each cell to meet fire and life safety requirements — all designed to ensure long-term durability and safety.
“This tunnel system is the backbone of the ORDNext program — enabling seamless passenger movement, future transit connectivity and critical operations infrastructure,” said Edward Balfe, HNTB’s project manager. “Our focus has been on designing a resilient, future-ready system that’s engineered to adapt and grow with the airport’s evolving demands.”
In addition to the tunnel system, HNTB is designing key civil infrastructure elements, including stormwater tunnels, grade separated roadways, aircraft aprons and taxiways to support expanded airfield operations and enhance overall airport efficiency. Also included is new Midfield Cooling Plant that will generate nearly 10,000 tons of cooling to support the new facilities.
For nearly four decades, HNTB has partnered with CDA to deliver a wide range of infrastructure services. Since 2011, HNTB has served as program and construction manager for capital improvement programs at both O’Hare and Midway international airports, supporting the CDA’s mission to modernize and enhance Chicago’s aviation facilities.
