Dane County Regional Airport (DCRA) officially opened the new $85 million south terminal expansion to travelers Monday morning. The 90,000-square-foot space adds three gates to the airport, and will be able to accommodate more flights and more passengers. DCRA has experienced a steady rise in travel, with near-record numbers of passengers taking advantage of nonstop service to over a dozen cities, and easy one-stop access to destinations around the world.
"The Dane County Regional Airport is the gateway to this region's economy,” said Dane County Executive Joe Parisi. “This south terminal expansion enables the Dane County Regional Airport to continue to pursue more flights, offer more convenience and additional flexibility for business and vacation travelers, and offer everyone an upgraded experience that is unparalleled in the region.”
Other new south terminal updates include increased gate seating, expansion and renovations of restrooms, and eco-responsible HVAC systems for jet bridges, seating, and common areas. The terminal is two stories with 45,000 square feet of public space in the upstairs area and 45,000 square feet of maintenance workshops and infrastructure in the ground floor.
The top floor includes the gates, a living room, expanded business center, a play area for children, a nursing suite for mothers, a changing station for adults with disabilities, and a service animal relief area that provides service dogs and other pets a hygienic place to go to the bathroom without owners having to leave the airport and go through security again. The second and final phase of the project will soon be underway, which involves the demolition of the former south end of the airport.
“As the Dane County Regional Airport continues to serve more travelers, we are committed to consistently upgrading the travel experience for every single person who chooses our airport,” said Kim Jones, airport director of Dane County Regional Airport. “This airport is at the forefront of design and amenities, and we are committed to continuing to ensure that the Dane County Regional Airport remains the preferred and accessible choice for all travelers.”
The Dane County Regional Airport provides seamless, low-stress, and affordable options for both leisure and business travelers with daily arrivals and departures, non-stop and one-stop service that provides access to nearly every worldwide destination. Visit www.msnairport.com for more information.