LaGuardia Gateway Partners (LGP) – the manager and developer of Terminal B – announced the opening of the second phase of the Western Concourse. The interior of the 218,000-square-foot Western Concourse is now fully open, featuring soaring ceilings up to 55 feet high and flooding the space with natural light. This phase includes the opening of four new gates, which enables LGP to close the final gates of the original Central Terminal Building.
The new Terminal B is now more than 90 percent complete. With modern amenities, innovative design and family-friendly spaces, the new concourse showcases the vision to build a 21st Century terminal that is a leader in guest experience, innovation and sustainability.
American Airlines primarily operates its flights out of the Western Concourse, which will also include a brand new 20,000-square-foot Admirals Club. Phase 1 of the new 350+ seat lounge opened Dec. 16. American plans for the club to be fully complete in spring of 2022.
The new concourse was designed with families in mind, offering a children’s play area modeled after New York City. Children of all ages can design their own city skyline on a 16-foot interactive display and climb on miniature bridges and skyscrapers. In addition, a brand-new nursing mother’s room and two additional family restrooms have opened in the concourse.
Opening along with the new concourse are two new retail shops – InMotion, a traveler’s top destination for electronics on the go, and The Scoop, offering everyday travel essentials and convenience items. These offerings join the already-opened Bar Veloce, Beecher’s Market Café, Sweetleaf Coffee and Gotham News in the concourse. Additional dining – Mi Casa, offering freshly made Mexican street food and an outpost of Manhattan’s Hunt and Fish Grill – will open in the near future.
Early next year, the second of the terminal’s dual sky bridges will open to connect the main part of the terminal to this second island concourse. Passengers will walk above aircraft as they make their way to their gate, all while enjoying views of the iconic Manhattan skyline.
Many commented on the on opening of the Western Concourse.
Magnus Eriksson, executive vice president of Skanska Asset Management and chairman of the Board of Directors of LaGuardia Gateway Partners, said “Today’s opening of four new gates within LaGuardia Airport Terminal B’s Western Concourse signifies the latest achievement in one of Skanska’s largest and most complex projects to date. We are thrilled to be nearing the finish line in delivering a world class terminal for New Yorkers and visitors to enjoy for years to come.”
George Casey, chair & chief executive officer, Vantage Airport Group and Board Member, LaGuardia Gateway Partners, said, “From initial concept, investment, and construction oversight to terminal operations and management, I’m proud of Vantage’s leadership role in delivering one of the largest transportation public private partnerships in U.S. history here at LaGuardia Terminal B. Today marks another important milestone to celebrate in the delivery of the new, world-class terminal that offers a completely transformed guest experience.”
Jane Garvey, global chairman, Meridiam and Board Member, LaGuardia Gateway Partners, said, “The opening of phase II of the Western Concourse marks an exciting new milestone in the Terminal B redevelopment project. At 90 percent completion, Terminal B’s redevelopment has already greatly improved passengers’ experiences traveling in and out of LaGuardia. I’m excited for New Yorkers to see the finishing touches.”
Frank Scremin, chief executive officer, LaGuardia Gateway Partners, said, “Gone are the days of low ceilings and dark hallways. With each new milestone, we are dramatically improving the customer experience and helping transform Terminal B into a gateway worthy of the greatest city in the world. Our terminal’s innovative design, inclusive atmosphere, and choice food and retail options bring LaGuardia further into the 21st century.”
Franco Tedeschi, vice president, Domestic Airports and Strategic Partnerships, American Airlines, said, “American Airlines has proudly served the New York market from LaGuardia Airport for more than eight decades. As we fully transition our operation to the all-new Terminal B, developed in partnership with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and LaGuardia Gateway Partners, American is building on our legacy of service for a new generation of travelers. The world-class facility redefines the travel experience – offering customers new amenities, more space and a seamless experience from curb-to-gate.”
