Renovations could extend Tampa airport terminal lifespan by 20 years
Planned renovations and enhancements in and around Tampa International Airport's main terminal should be enough to extend the building’s lifespan by another 20 years, a consultant told the Hillsborough Aviation Board. The improvements should allow the Florida authority to delay spending more than $1 billion on a new terminal.
A key component now taking shape in an updated master plan is an automated people mover that would link the main terminal with the economy parking lot and a relocated rental car facility. Trams similar to those serving airside terminals would reduce vehicle traffic on congested roadways and curbsides. That would help the main terminal handle 30 million passengers annually rather than the 25 million-passenger capacity originally envisioned. Also included in the 20-year plan is space for a light-rail terminal and a convenience store and gas station.