Des Moines International Airport Terminal Programming Study

HNTB is providing planning services to the Des Moines Airport Authority for implementation of a new 14 gate terminal building and related projects. The multi-component study includes site selection, planning, programming, stakeholder coordination, financial feasibility, cost estimation and conceptual design services (architectural and engineering). The final deliverable is a Program Definition Manual to be given to the Architect and Contractor at the beginning of the design phase as a guiding document agreed upon by all stakeholders. A detailed planning cost estimate is to be provided to ensure the project can be financially achieved.

The first component of the planning process was for site selection on the airport campus. A previous planning study by another consultant located the new terminal on a semi-greenfield site located on the south quadrant of the airport campus. After changes to the requirements and available land use, HNTB was contracted to restudy the site selection given the new variables. After a comprehensive study, the Des Moines Airport Board approved the new HNTB recommended location on the east quadrant and immediately adjacent to the existing terminal. Key reasons for the move included the re-use of existing infrastructure, parking garages and minimization of the tenant relocation. The east quadrant also eliminated a large taxiway project that made the new site more cost effective. HNTB provided a comprehensive phasing implementation plan to ensure operations of the site for existing passengers, airport and airline operations.

The second component of the planning process will include detailed stakeholder coordination to make sure all parties have provided detailed recommendations and needs for their areas. A comprehensive facility program will be created with appropriate area takeoffs and adjacencies. A detailed planning concept based upon these program requirements will be developed including terminal/architecture, building systems, and civil (landside and airside).