San Diego Airport receives $23.5 million in new financing for Terminal 1, which will have new gates, restaurants and shops by 2028

SAN Diego International Airport is getting a $23.5 million upgrade.

Funding for Terminal 1 comes from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

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Shannetta R. Griffin, PEassociate administrator for airports at the FAA, explained the need for expensive upgrades.

“These grants not only invest in the physical infrastructure of our airports, but also in strengthening security and improving efficiency for travelers, and helping the economy thrive,” she said in a statement.

A total of $187 million in grants will go to U.S. airports to modernize them.

San Diego International Airport’s Terminal 1 already cost $3.4 billion before the $23.5 million donation.

WHAT TO EXPECT

The 1,210,000-square-foot terminal building will have 30 gates for travelers.

It will also have 19 restaurants and seven retail stores to choose from.

With a 13-lane security checkpoint and more than 5,000 parking spaces, travelers in a hurry can breathe easy.

While most of the airport terminal will be completed by 2025, the last 11 gates will not be completed until 2028.

There will also be easier access for drivers with a special lane to enter San Diego International Airport.

Terminal 1 will add more seats at the airport to accommodate the crows awaiting their flights.

Commissioned artwork from six different artists will also adorn the walls.

A new play area will cater to families traveling with children.

The airport will also have an emphasis on honoring local residents.

Food in Terminal 1 will serve many locally sourced dining options.

AN AIRPORT WITH HISTORY

Terminal 1 has been around for some time, making the renovation a welcome change.

It first opened its doors in 1967 – and its first year was a success, with around 2.5 million passengers passing through.

In 2011, San Diego International Airport welcomed approximately 11 million passengers.

Historically, the airport was a “meeting place” according to Terminal 1 website.

The simple design of the original airport allowed future renovation works to be carried out smoothly.

Terminal 1 will adopt an environmentally friendly approach, using 100% carbon-free electricity.

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