Upgrades at the airport are coming as the Tucson Airport Authority (TAA) approved a new project to improve it's terminal.
The project known as "A Brighter TUS" will improve infrastructure, expand security checkpoint areas and also create more options in the post-security area.
The biggest change that passengers will see involves security checkpoints. The airport will move from their current location to the edges of the terminals.
"Expanding the checkpoints from three to four is the biggest thing," said Tony Finley, Chairman of TAA. "Relocation of the security checkpoints to the outside of the terminals will give more space, more lighting, ultimately better throughput through the airport."
They are increasing capacity in security checkpoints as the airport has been dealing with longer lines for the past several months.
In addition to changing security checkpoints, the airport will also create more retail and concession space.
"This project provides us with the opportunity to enhance the customer experience through improved space utilization," said TAA President/CEO Bonnie Allin in the press release.
The funding for the multi-phased $28.3 million project will come from the Federal Aviation Administration facility charge program and the remainder will be paid by the Tucson Airport Authority. No tax dollars are being used in the funding for this project.
The project will begin construction in June and will finish by the end of 2017.
There will be new composure areas constructed beyond the new security checkpoints which will include seating for passengers, a new business center and a play area for children.
