Kansas City International Airport New Single Terminal and Garage

The Kansas City International Airport New Single Terminal and Garage, the city’s largest-ever infrastructure project, shows what can be done with speed, precision and care. This $1.5 billion Progressive Design-Build (PDB) effort replaced three aging terminals with one modern facility, setting a new standard for airports nationwide. Despite pandemic-era challenges, the project was finished 60 days early and saved $45 million. The team maintained momentum through constant communication, fast decision making and a collaborative approach that kept design and construction tightly aligned from start to finish.

Designed for Comfort, Connection and Community
The new terminal features thoughtful amenities, including a sensory room, a quiet room and an easy-access connector. These spaces make travel more comfortable for families with young children and people with sensory or mobility needs. The terminal also highlights Kansas City’s spirit with 19 permanent art installations by local artists and a concessions program where 80% of vendors are local. The project also supported the local economy by awarding $320 million in contracts to 133 Underutilized Business Enterprises. These efforts reflect the city’s values and create a welcoming experience for travelers.

The terminal’s clean look is made possible by a well-coordinated network of complex systems placed entirely behind the scenes, where they work together to keep passengers moving smoothly even during peak hours. By hiding the complexity, the design creates a calm and effortless experience for travelers.

Kansas City’s new facility is the first in the Midwest to earn LEED Gold and only the second in the country. The building uses Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood, features a high-performance building shell and utilizes materials sourced from the region. The parking garage’s solar panels generate power all year, and a planned solar farm will add even more renewable energy.

Winner – Project of the Year

This is the largest infrastructure project in Kansas City’s history and a new front door for the region. Delivered 60 days early and $45 million under budget, the terminal balances technical mastery with human-centered design. Its clean look is powered by a well-coordinated network of complex systems hidden behind the scenes, creating an effortless traveler experience. Visitors enjoy open, sunlit interiors, sensory and quiet rooms and a level connector that makes the concourses fully accessible. With 19 local art installations, 80% local vendors and $320 million awarded to minority- and women-owned firms, its impact is both cultural and economic. One of the awards jurors said it best, “This project redefined what an airport can be: efficient, inclusive and unmistakably Kansas City.”

Winner – Best in Process (PDB)

This landmark project shows how Progressive Design-Build can deliver results beyond expectations. Despite its scale and complexity, the team completed the terminal on time and under budget – reinvesting $38 million in savings into additional enhancements. Through innovative risk-sharing, a unified team culture and meticulous upfront planning, they achieved alignment, agility and excellence from start to finish. As one juror remarked, “This team didn’t just meet expectations, they redefined what success looks like.”

Winner – Trailblazer in Inclusive Growth (Large Project)

The team committed to an ambitious goal of 35% UBE participation for professional and construction services contracts. The awards jury was impressed that they set this goal themselves, not because it was an Owner requirement. Contracts were awarded to 133 minority- and women-owned Kansas City-based firms totaling more than $320 million. This effort exceeded the city’s goals for diverse workforce participation and delivered historic regional economic benefits. It also provided local firms with invaluable collaborative delivery experience on large, complex projects.

Design-Build Team

Photos

Photo Credits: Jeff Roberts; Lucas Blair Simpson; Adri Guyer; Clark Construction