Tampa International Airport, Blue Express Curbside

As the architect and engineer of record, HNTB provided an innovative solution for the Curbside Expansion Project at Tampa International Airport. As a component of the HNTB generated master plan concept for the airport, the “Express Curbside” is a time-efficient option for passengers with carry-on only bags. This allows all passengers who are not checking bags with airlines to bypass the ticket and baggage lobby entirely and provides direct access to airport gates.

The airport innovation reduces curbside congestion while providing a new, enhanced level of customer service.

The project creates terminal expansion and four curbside lanes stacked on two levels, for a total of eight new curbside lanes. The complex phased project, located on a very constrained site, constructs the adjoining terminal building expansions and curbside roadway expansions, while maintaining 100% passenger’s pedestrian and vehicle access to and inside the terminal, via an alternative delivery method of construction. HNTB co-located with the contractor and collaborated with the owner and contractor to meet the scope, schedule, quality and budget goals of the project.

HNTB developed the detailed phasing plans for maintaining roads, curbside, and terminal components. The roadways were coordinated, weaving under and over an existing underground baggage tunnel, two existing pedestrian bridges, APM guideways and structures. In addition, a myriad of early enabling phased projects were designed for utility relocations and early foundations. The phasing accommodated multiple adjustments to passenger flow, while maintaining access throughout the terminal during construction.

A first in the U.S., the completed project is setting the standard in airport efficiency and paving the way for the next phase in the airport’s master plan.