Fargo Builds Front-Door Capacity with Parking Ramp Expansion

At many airports, parking is more than a convenience. It is the first and last impression of the passenger journey.

At Hector International Airport, the new parking ramp reflects how smaller airports are investing in landside infrastructure to support growth while improving reliability in challenging climates. Opened in August 2025, the four-story structure adds nearly 1,000 parking spaces and creates a more predictable, accessible experience for travelers year-round.

In North Dakota, weather plays a defining role in how passengers move through the airport. The project was designed to minimize exposure to extreme conditions while improving access to the terminal.

“The project was designed to address both harsh weather conditions and growing passenger demand,” said Shawn Dobberstein, executive director of Hector International Airport. “By providing close-proximity parking and planning for an enclosed skyway, we are making the journey from vehicle to gate easier and more reliable.”

Maintaining Access During Construction

Delivering the project required balancing construction with the day-to-day needs of passengers.

Rather than limiting access during construction, the airport prioritized maintaining all available parking options. Surface lots remained open throughout the project, ensuring that travelers always had a place to park, even as capacity shifted.

To support passengers during the transition, the airport introduced valet parking and a free shuttle service connecting surface lots to the terminal. These measures provided flexibility while helping manage longer walking distances during construction.

The project team also placed a strong emphasis on communication. Updates were shared across multiple channels, including social media, signage, newsletters and press outreach, helping set expectations and maintain trust with travelers and the community.

“Consistent, transparent communication helped passengers understand that short-term inconvenience would lead to a better long-term experience,” Dobberstein said.

Supporting Growth and Long-Term Experience

The new parking ramp is already delivering measurable results.

Demand has remained strong since opening, with the facility frequently reaching capacity. Travelers have responded positively to the proximity to the terminal, which simplifies access and reduces uncertainty during peak travel periods.

The project also supports a broader modernization effort at the airport. The ramp was planned in coordination with terminal expansion work, ensuring that landside capacity keeps pace with future growth and operational needs.

Looking ahead, the addition of an enclosed skyway connection will further enhance the passenger experience by providing a protected path from parking to the terminal.

For airport leaders, the project reinforces a clear takeaway. Landside infrastructure plays a critical role in shaping the overall passenger experience.

By focusing on access, reliability and communication, Hector International Airport has shown how even a straightforward project can deliver meaningful improvements for both passengers and operations.