SFO Announces Plans For Major Upgrades Over Next Decade
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS)— Officials at San Francisco International Airport announced on Monday, they hope to spend more than $4 billion over the next 10 years to make major upgrades.
The capitol improvement plan will not only help SFO keep pace with other major airports, but it will also create thousands of new jobs, Airport Director John Martin said.
2012 was a record-breaking year for travelers with some 14.5 million people going through the gates at SFO last year. With use like that officials have said the improvements are imperative.
SFO Announces Plans For Major Upgrades Over Next 10 Years
Construction crews are working to raise the ceilings already and expanding the boarding area for future United Airlines passengers.
"After we complete work in this boarding area, we're going to go all around the circle," Martin said.
Plans are in the works to upgrade Terminal 1, build a brand new air traffic control tower, and a luxury hotel with 400 rooms.
San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee said when it's finished, not only will SFO maintain it's world class feel, but it will put dollars in plenty of people's pockets.
"[In] 10 years it's up to 36,000 new jobs," the mayor exclaimed.
Martin said it's an expensive endeavour and one funded through bonds that are entirely supported through airport revenues, including concessionaire taxes.
"We have a very strong financial economic engine in the airport," said Martin.
The project still needs approval from SFO's Airport Commission members who are set for a final vote on Tuesday.
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