Groundbreaking ceremonies were held Monday morning for the Rapid City Regional Airport’s Terminal Expansion Project, a 3-phase project that could take a decade or more, depending on funding.
District 34 State Representative Mike Derby told the ceremony that it’s the future of Rapid City to have great air service and efficient air service.”
Phase 1 focuses on the ticketing, baggage drop-off and TSA areas. It includes 2 luggage carousels to make it easier for baggage handlers to get luggage to their designated aircraft. Construction is expected to take 18 months.
Rapid City Airport Executive Director Patrick Dame says the baggage handling operation hasn’t been upgraded since the 1980s and has grown increasingly inefficient.
The bulk of the Phase 1 funding, $11.9-million dollars, comes from the Bi-Partisan Infrastructure Law with the rest coming from FAA Airport Improvement funds and the airport’s Capital Reserve Fund.
Phase 2 will expand the concourse and gate area while Phase 3 will expand the car rental and baggage claim areas.