In alignment with its 25th anniversary, Denver International Airport (DEN) recently announced that construction has recommenced on the Great Hall Project, with Stantec—a global integrated design firm—serving as lead designer. The work will include a renovation of the airport’s Jeppesen Terminal to create an airport for the future with enhanced safety and security, a more intuitive passenger flow, and increased capacity to accommodate continued growth. Hensel Phelps is serving as construction manager and general contractor.
Since opening, DEN has grown into one of the world’s busiest airline hubs, currently hosting 69 million passengers per year. DEN’s annual passenger throughput is expected to grow by 23% in the next 15 years and reach 110 million passengers by 2040. The Jeppesen Terminal is one of the most iconic airport terminals in the world, and the redevelopment will serve to enhance that world-class passenger experience by leveraging technology to speed the journey from curb to gate. Whether arriving or departing, the revitalized Great Hall will extend a warm welcome and create a lasting impression for passengers.
Level 6 West deck expansion. Photo courtesy of Stantec
The design will consolidate two TSA checkpoints to one end of the terminal and create efficiency by allowing for balanced redistribution of passengers. The new checkpoints will be configured to reduce passenger stress while increasing throughput and improving security. Boutique queuing zones and lane management will humanize the passenger experience while queuing. Beautifully clad state-of-the-art Automated Screening Lanes (ASLs) will incorporate innovative technology—including automated tray returns, alarmed bag diverters, and remote screening—that is less intrusive and speeds up passenger screening processes.
The implementation of hybrid ticket counters that feature self-service bag drop capability or agent assistance at every counter will allow passengers a choice of check-in process. This will be combined with amenities such as repack stations with built-in scales and tables for passengers to rearrange their luggage contents to avoid weight overage charges.
“Denver International Airport is one of the busiest airports in North America, and growing at a rapid rate,” said Alexander Thome, Stantec principal based in Denver. “We’re excited to roll up our sleeves and get to work on advancing security, increasing capacity, elevating the passenger experience, and completing the transformation of one of the nation’s premier airports. This is a project that requires collaboration, communication, and a focus on exceptional delivery. We’re thrilled for construction to recommence.”
Stantec is providing architecture, interior design, design management, and project control services. The firm’s Denver office will collaborate with aviation experts from Stantec’s Vancouver and Toronto offices to verify existing designs, identify design innovation opportunities and budget and schedule efficiencies. Stantec will also provide construction observation services.
The Great Hall project is the latest in a line of major airport transformation projects Stantec is leading across North America. At Vancouver International Airport, the firm designed the A-B Connector, a domestic terminal that features international-level finishes and amenities, and an interior volume that makes navigation easy. At Toronto Pearson International Airport, Stantec’s aviation experts reconfigured Terminals 1 and 3 to improve passenger experience, grow revenue, and save energy. At New York’s John F Kennedy Airport, the firm is currently acting as Owner’s Advisor to design Terminals 6 and 7 and their associated airside and landside infrastructure in association with Corgan.
