Portland Airport terminal reopens after renovation with emphasis on wood

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PORTLAND, Oregon — Passengers streamed into Portland International Airport’s redesigned main terminal Wednesday after a $2.1 billion construction project. Some were surprised by the wood-focused design, which culminated in a 9-acre hardwood ceiling.

Members of the University of Portland women’s soccer team shouted “OMG!” and “This is so beautiful” as they boarded their flight to California. Departing passengers took photos in front of the trees inside. And a volunteer pianist played soul classics near newly opened food stalls.

All in all, it was just another day at the airport.

“We are already back to normal operations,” said Curtis Robinhold, general manager of the Port of Portland.

In order to open the main terminal building, four areas had to be operational: restrooms, ticket counters, baggage handling facilities and security facilities, Robinhold said. By Wednesday, all were operational.

The building will allow the airport to almost double its capacity to 35 million passengers a year while also providing earthquake safety. Biophilic design principles have been used to bring nature indoors, with huge wooden ceilings and floors, tree plantings and large screens showing nature scenes. Many materials are sourced locally.

The visitors were impressed.

“It’s beautiful,” said Los Angeles resident Rachel Stella, who was leaving after visiting family in Portland. “I like the openness here.”

On Wednesday, the more than three-year-long Phase 1 construction project ended. A joint venture between Hoffman and Skanska led the implementation of the design under the direction of ZGF Architects. More than 5.4 million craftsman hours were invested in the project without any serious incidents, Robinhold said.

Economic development officials see the new terminal as an asset. The building “provides an excellent introduction to Oregon and creates a positive first impression for companies from around the world,” said Monique Claiborne, president and CEO of Greater Portland Inc., in a press release.

The project team recovered from a three-day safety break in February after a series of near misses. That turned out to be the right decision, Robinhold said.

“The delay was appropriate, perhaps a little cautious, but incredibly successful,” he said.

Airport officials are now turning their attention to Phase 2 – a more modest undertaking that includes renovating the north and south ends of the terminal to create new shops and restaurants, private restrooms, arrivals areas and baggage claim exits.

The port went to the bond market last week to finance the second phase, valued at $598 million, with advice from Bank of America and Goldman Sachs.

“We entered the market last week just before the volatility,” Robinhold said. “It seemed like a good time for credit.”

The 30-year bonds are to be repaid with the revenues of the airlines that fly to the airport.

Numerous construction workers were still on site on Wednesday to carry out the work. Electricians were busy disconnecting old infrastructure.

Several new concessionaires opened on Wednesday, including local pubs Loyal Legion, Orox Leather Co., Country Cat and Missionary Chocolates. Airport authorities have prioritized attracting local businesses.

The main terminal is built to withstand a major earthquake. The ceilings are fitted with base isolators that allow the ceiling to move 60 centimetres in any direction. The building is also designed to be flexible. Large Y-shaped support pillars and baggage claim exits are the only elements that cannot be moved.

“We are ready for the future,” said Robinhold.