Abilene Regional Airport proposes $70 million renovation project

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – As the Abilene Regional Airport approaches its 57th anniversary, a new plan has emerged to give the building a refresh, with an estimated cost of $70 million.

At the Airport Development Board Meeting, Director of Transportation Services Don Green said Abilene was well overdue for a refresher at the airport.

“The terminal was built in 1968. It needs improvements; it needs additions. It needs work to happen on it. No matter what kind of work we decide to do, what level, what phase… we have to start putting some money into the terminal,” Green said.

The project is broken into three phases and has an estimated cost of $70 million, which Green said even if bonds cover it, the city would still have to pay $20 million.

“I don’t think that this happens without a bond election. Right. Because we’re talking big bucks,” Green said during the meeting.

The airport currently experiences a crowded lobby area during boarding time, with planes operating at full capacity. The plan’s primary goals are to enhance lighting, increase capacity, and improve accessibility outside. Green discussed several proposals for the new building, including removing the top-tier driveway and adding another lane to the lower level instead.

“That gives us larger restrooms. It gives us an assisted restroom, nursing mothers room, a vending area, a VIP business space, and seating for up to 200 people and the new jet bridge,” Green said. “We’re going to have more glass, and that opens up the feel of the terminal. It opens up the light to natural light during the daytime.”

The proposal will be brought up at the City Council retreat on Friday.