How the $242 Million Renovation Project at Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport's Terminal 1 is Elevating Traveler Experience

Nov. 9, 2023
One of the biggest redevelopments in the airport's history will transform how Minnesota travels.

The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) announced Nov. 9 it’s undertaking a major renovation of Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport's Terminal 1.

This is the latest in a series of major upgrades to MSP in the past decade to enhance traveler experience and accommodate growing traffic. Here are three things you need to know about the project.

Significant Interior Renovation Project

The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) and Delta Air Lines have initiated a $242 million Airport Modernization Program (AMP) for a comprehensive interior renovation of six out of seven concourses at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport's Terminal 1, which originally opened in 1962.

The renovation encompasses 378,000 square feet and features various enhancements, including new Terrazzo flooring, wall finishes, LED lighting, metal panel ceiling systems, structural column covers, and technology upgrades. Delta's gate hold rooms will undergo a full refresh, including new seating with power outlets, carpeting, information display screens, and updated branding.

It’s a Collaborative Effort

The MAC is contributing $182.5 million, and Delta is investing $60 million in the renovation program. The project is divided into three phases, with work already underway in concourses D and F since October 2023. The subsequent phases include renovations in Concourse C starting in February 2024 and improvements in concourses A, B, G, and the skyway bridge scheduled for 2025.

The AMP is part of a broader initiative to transform Terminal 1, bringing the MAC's total investment in high-profile projects to over $1 billion over a decade. Previous projects include the $525 million Terminal 1 Operational Improvements program and the $80 million expansion phase of Concourse G in 2022.

More to Come at MSP

According to MAC, future projects at MSP, including the ongoing foundation and utility work for the second phase of Concourse G expansion in 2024. This phase involves a $330 million investment, doubling seating capacity, adding facilities like restrooms and a sensory room and creating additional concession space.

Additionally, the MAC is investing $6.5 million in 2024 to help Delta optimize its operations by reconfiguring gate and ramp space in concourses B and C to accommodate larger aircraft. These initiatives highlight a commitment to continuous improvement and adapting to the evolving needs of the airport.