Sacramento International Opens New Terminal

SACRAMENTO, CA (October 5, 2011) — Sacramento International Airport (SMF), the gateway to Northern California and the world, celebrates the first departures out of the new Central Terminal B on October 6, 2011. The $1.03-billion terminal modernization project, the Big Build, includes the new Central Terminal B and Airside Concourse, designed by Corgan Associates, Inc., in association with Fentress Architects. The Big Build stands as the largest public construction capital improvement project undertaken by Sacramento County to date. “Corgan and Fentress Architects have been invaluable partners during both the design and construction phases of the New Central Terminal B,” said Director of Airports G. Hardy Acree. “The new terminal is operationally flexible, environmentally sustainable and fiscally responsible.”

The Big Build includes a new central terminal, a new 19-gate airside concourse, international arrivals facilities, passenger security checkpoints, an in-line baggage screening system and more than 42,000-square-feet of concessions. Sacramento International Airport is now capable of accommodating approximately 16 million passengers annually and will handle projected long-term growth with future developments.

The new terminal is bright and airy, with abundant natural daylight entering through clerestories and expansive glass curtainwalls. Clerestories also run the length of the airside concourse, maximizing daylight and reducing internal energy use. Sustainable features include solar shading devices integrated in the curtainwall; low-E glass to minimize heat gain; use of recycled materials in building structure, floor and ceiling finishes; low-flow fixtures throughout and natural ventilation when possible. Together, the County of Sacramento and Sacramento County Airport System, along with design and construction teams are pursuing LEED® Silver certification for the Central Terminal B and Airside Concourse, which will establish the entire team as leaders in sustainable building.

Designed by Corgan, in association with Fentress Architects, the new Central Terminal B is now a world-class airport facility and a gateway to the Central Valley region. The architects captured the area’s rich history and culture to create a unique sense of place that represents Sacramento. The vaulted three-story glass-walled structure offers panoramic views on three sides, including toward downtown and the mountains. Inside, the crossing structural members overhead create a dynamic rhythm of light and shadow, an effect inspired by Sacramento’s lush tree-lined streets. Easy wayfinding was created with unobstructed views across the ticketing hall, a visual connection to the central circulation spine and ample views to the outdoors.

The new Central Terminal B boasts an array of artwork by renowned local and international artists. Visitors can view a large-scale art piece by Denver-based artist Lawrence Argent— “Leap,” which features a giant red rabbit jumping into a suitcase. Local artist Christian Moeller of Los Angeles created an intricate wood work panel featuring six faces of the baggage handlers at Sacramento International Airport. Other creative pieces range from tile mosaics to interactive flat screens and walk-through sculptures.