Construction projects on ECP to meet growth needs

PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL (WJHG/WECP) –

Construction projects are coming to Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport.

“As we look at what the demands are on the terminal and the airport, we’re planning for the future,” said Parker McClellan, executive director of Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport.

When ECP first opened, the total number of passengers was approximately 300,000; now approximately 1.8 million passengers travel through the airport annually.

The projects in development are necessary to meet the airport’s needs.

The expanded baggage storage facility, dubbed the “luggage locker,” will increase capacity to accommodate the growing number of travelers. This project includes the construction of approximately 12,000 square feet west of the existing baggage area and the addition of another baggage carousel.

The North Terminal expansion adds 12,500 square feet of terminal space, providing more waiting areas, additional restrooms and space for new concessions.

The two projects are facing minor delays due to supply issues, but airport officials remain optimistic.

“We hope to have both projects completed by the end of the year,” McClellan said.

Looking to the future, airport officials are implementing a five-year capital expenditure plan that proposes a $90 million terminal expansion that will increase the terminal’s footprint to 80,000 square feet. So far they have managed to raise about $50 million.

Airport officials also announced a new direct flight to Austin, Texas.

“If you look at the heat map of where our passengers are coming from, the state of Texas is huge,” McClellan said.

The cost of adding and expanding the luggage compartment is about $11 million. Direct flights to Austin begin March 9.

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