Provo’s new $55 million terminal ready for take off

PROVO, Utah — With all the work completed on a new $55 million, 75,000-square-foot airport terminal, Provo leaders prepared for a grand unveiling Friday.

The Federal Aviation Administration, the state of Utah, Utah County and Provo City shared in the cost of construction.

“By investing in vital infrastructure, we created economic opportunity for Provo rather than waiting for it,” said Provo Mayor Michelle Kaufusi. “The community economic benefits are substantial, with each new roundtrip daily destination bringing an estimated $15 million into our local, regional, and state economy.”

The Provo Airport is the state’s second busiest airport. Work on the new terminal started in 2019.

Last month Allegiant Air announced that it planned to invest $95 million to create a four-aircraft base at the Provo Airport. The company said it would bring about 150 high-paying jobs.

The airline also announced it will add more destinations from Provo.

A news release said the airport offers several new features that include:

• A family lounge offers an enclosed area for children to play as they wait
• Travelers commons with 630 seats and designated areas for family and business areas
• Downtown Provo serves as the inspiration for Streetscape Provo, with red-bricked storefronts showcasing local retail shops and restaurants
• Outlook Lounge is a large public gathering space designed to watch aircraft land or take flight, meet with colleagues or simply enjoy Provo’s beauty
• Reunion court offers a spacious waiting area with floor-to-ceiling glass for a clear view of arriving passengers

City leaders and other dignitaries will cut the ribbon on the new terminal Friday at 10 a.m.

“The forward-looking terminal design not only provides more gates and destinations; it is designed to enhance the travel experience from curb to flight,” said Brian Torgersen, interim Provo Airport manager. “Quick gate access and short lines reduce travel hassle; additions of baggage carousels, jetway and rental cars increase travel convenience.”

Kaufusi said the new terminal will help bring people to west Provo.

“Where once West Provo, with its limited access, felt like an out-of-the-way adventure, the completion of the four-lane Lakeview Parkway will bring opportunities for nearly 1,000 acres of undeveloped land,” Kaufusi said. “With Provo City approximately 80 percent developed, creating a West Provo that is a destination for resident and visitor alike becomes all the more important.”