Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport plans to open a passenger lounge later this year.
The project will be a Primeclass Lounge, similar to others in San Diego, Palm Beach and JFK Airport in New York City. It will occupy a 1,100-square-foot space in Concourse B, according to Allen Forrest, CEO of the Forrest Group. The lounge will be for common use, located near the Hudson News Vulcan store, just past the TSA security checkpoint.
“It will be a reflection of what’s local,” Forrest, an Alabama native said. “It will feel like a Birmingham, Alabama experience. For me, it’s about wanting to do something for my state.”
Ron Mathieu. President and CEO of the Birmingham Airport Authority, said completion of the lounge is slated for the fourth quarter of the year.
“We are always looking for ways to elevate and enhance our passengers’ experience at the airport,” Mathieu said. "We look forward to travelers having a quiet place to work or simply take a break from the hustle and bustle of air travel.”
Its facade is planned as a solid wood threshold with an Alabama dolomite stone reception desk. It will feature tables, workstations, high speed internet and Wi-Fi access, televisions and business equipment typically provided in airline lounges. Large woven light pendants will hang from the ceiling to provide filtered light.
Forrest said the lounge is still looking for a brand sponsorship, and plans to offer fine dining options.
“We looked at the numbers," Forrest said. "There are three million passengers coming through Birmingham on a yearly basis. But there’s no central lounge. This is about bringing local economic development to the community.
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