Capital Project Brief: Nashville Advances Central Core Expansion to Handle 40M Passengers

Project Overview

Nashville International Airport (BNA) is moving forward with a Central Core Enhancement project aimed at expanding terminal entrance capacity and improving passenger flow between key processing points. The project is part of the airport’s broader New Horizon capital program and is designed to support projected demand of up to 40 million annual passengers over the next decade.

Key Details

• Project Type: Terminal access and circulation upgrade
• Location: Central Core, Nashville International Airport
• Start Date: June 1, 2026
• Completion: December 2027
• Total Investment: $40 million
Program Context: Part of $3.0 billion New Horizon expansion

Scope of Work

The project focuses heavily on vertical circulation and passenger movement efficiency:

• Escalators increasing from 6 to 16
• Expanded configuration: two up / two down per floor
• Addition of a new Level 4 landing
• Elevator capacity doubled with upgraded, larger and faster systems
• Enhanced wayfinding, signage and passenger guidance tools
• Additional staffing during construction to manage flow

Capacity Impact

• Designed to support 40 million annual passengers
• Peak demand planning: 3.8 million passengers per month
• Builds flexibility to maintain throughput during peak travel periods

Delivery Partners

• Architect: Fentress Studios (Populous company)
• Construction: Hensel Phelps

Funding Structure

Consistent with most large U.S. airport capital programs, funding will include:

• Airport-issued bonds
• Federal and state aviation grants
• Passenger Facility Charges (PFCs)
• Airport operating revenues

No local tax funding is being used.

Operational Strategy During Construction

BNA is prioritizing continuity of operations through:

• Temporary wayfinding and signage upgrades
• On-site staff to guide passengers
• Ongoing traveler communication via digital channels
• Maintaining full access to parking and ground transportation