BUILDING A BETTER TRAVEL EXPERIENCE

Build OMA

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Build OMA is a needs-based development program based on Omaha Airport Authority’s Master Plan that will support Eppley Airfield’s growing passenger activity and provide an improved airport experience for travelers flying in and out of our community.

BEHIND THE BUILD

Build OMA’s Terminal Drive & Canopy Project is now well underway. This inaugural project for the Build OMA program is designed to deliver enhanced comfort and ease to the pick-up and drop-off experience while accommodating long-term growth in airport activity.

To further support and facilitate the expected long-term growth, in early 2024 we’ll also begin construction of a new, 21,550-square-ft central utility plant. Not only will this new equipment and modern facility replace aging infrastructure, but it’s also expected to reduce the airport’s overall energy consumption.

The Terminal Drive & Canopy Project

This is the first piece of the transformative Build OMA program and is expected to be complete by Spring 2025.

When finished, travelers and motorists alike will find this vital area of Eppley Airfield enhanced with several purposeful refinements, including:

  • New terminal drop-off area with an additional passenger drop-off lane, providing a safer and more efficient traffic flow while adding capacity to accommodate long-term growth in activity.
  • Outdoor passenger areas will be 100% covered by a new glass canopy that provides protection from the elements and enhances the safety and overall pick-up/drop-off experience.
  • Full ADA accessibility with 725 ft of curbless entry in the pick-up/drop-off lane adjacent to the terminal.

Central Utility Plant Construction

With construction planned to run concurrently with the Terminal Drive & Canopy Project, this next Build OMA initiative is expected to be completed in February 2025.

In addition to supporting our airport’s long-term growth, this new central utility plant will be a cornerstone working behind the scenes to enhance our customers’ comfort and travel experience from parking to takeoff and everywhere between.
New equipment and design elements for the central utility plant include:

  • New centralized heating and cooling system and provisions for resiliency through onsite and portable emergency power backup.
  • An all-new loading dock to increase safety and enhance the efficiency of airport services.

WHAT TO EXPECT

This first project in the Build OMA program is designed to deliver enhanced comfort and ease to the pick-up and drop-off experience. And while we recommend travelers plan for extra time traveling to and from the airport, we are taking efforts to help alleviate friction and facilitate a smooth experience:

  • During certain phases of the project, the ground level of the existing South Garage will be used for passenger drop-off and pick-up as the roadway and canopy are being constructed adjacent to the terminal.
  • Crosswalks from the terminal to the garage will be maintained for customers.
  • Drop-off for shuttles, taxis, ride apps and buses will remain operational on the front drive through all phases of construction, but commercial drop-off lanes will change during the construction phases to accommodate construction of canopy.
  • Some aspects of canopy construction will take place overnight to maintain passenger safety and minimize disruption.

A LOOK into THE FUTURE

These renderings* provide a glimpse beyond the horizon and showcase what’s in store when the Terminal Drive & Canopy Project is complete.

*Preliminary concept — subject to change.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT EXACTLY IS CHANGING?

The Terminal Drive & Canopy Project is the first component of Build OMA, a program that will provide an improved airport experience for travelers and support Eppley Airfield’s growing passenger activity. The Terminal Drive & Canopy Project will result in a new roadway at the curbside of the terminal and a new glass canopy covering the entire passenger area from the parking garage to the terminal. This project will add an additional passenger drop-off lane, make the drop-off and pick-up area ADA accessible and provide cover from weather elements. In addition, a new central utility plant (CUP) will be built.

WHAT IS THE CUP?

The Omaha Airport Authority announced that it will construct a new central utility plant at Eppley Airfield as part of the Build OMA program that launched in June. The new 21,550-square-foot central utility plant will include a central heating and cooling system and provisions for resiliency with upgraded emergency power capabilities to serve future terminal development and support operations at Eppley Airfield. The new CUP is anticipated to reduce the airport’s energy use and replace the existing equipment which is at the end of its useful life.

WHY ARE WE DOING THIS?

Build OMA reflects the needs of today’s travelers while providing the flexibility to continue to grow and expand in the long term. An updated, modern terminal will position Eppley Airfield to support passengers for decades to come. We are building a better airport experience while maintaining the characteristics that our travelers love about OMA. These efforts (Terminal Drive & Canopy Project/CUP Project) are enabling projects for future terminal expansion and renovation currently under design.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

The total project costs for the canopy and roadway are $65M. The total project costs for the CUP are $92.5M.

HOW IS THE TERMINAL DRIVE & CANOPY PROJECT BEING FUNDED?

Residents will not be taxed, and this will not impact property taxes. The Omaha Airport Authority is a non-taxing authority and collects user fees to support the operation and maintenance of airport facilities. The project is currently being funded with approximately $30.9M in federal grants along with airport revenues.

HOW IS THE CUP BEING FUNDED?

The project was awarded a $5 million Community Funding Project grant through the Federal Aviation Administration. The project is also funded by airport revenues. The Omaha Airport Authority is a non-taxing authority and collects user fees to support the operation and maintenance of airport facilities.

WHAT IS THE TIMELINE FOR COMPLETION ON THIS PROJECT?

Build OMA will roll out in planned phases, starting with the Terminal Drive & Canopy Project, to minimize disruptions to travelers and ensure the airport remains functional along the way. The Terminal Drive & Canopy Project is anticipated to be completed Spring 2025, while the CUP project is expected to be completed in 2025.

WHO WILL BE WORKING ON THE PROJECT?

Hawkins Construction is the general contractor for the Terminal Drive & Canopy Project. Holder Construction is the general contractor for the CUP.

HOW IS CONSTRUCTION GOING TO IMPACT MY TRAVEL DAY?

Traveler impact is determined by the phase of construction we are currently experiencing. Initial construction will launch in summer 2023; travelers can expect lane closures at passenger drop-off and pick-up areas and should plan for extra time when arriving at the airport. Follow along on our progress to stay informed and plan ahead by subscribing to our newsletter at BuildOMA.com.

WHO CAN I CONTACT FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES?

Please direct media inquiries to publicaffairs@flyoma.com.