Florida Construction News staff writer
Parsons Corporation has been chosen by the Lee County Port Authority to lead the Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) terminal expansion project, the company announced.
According to a press release, Terminal Expansion Phase 2, a $1.1 billion project, began enabling work on Oct. 1, 2024, and will add 14 additional gates on a new concourse to meet the anticipated increase in passengers at RSW.
The expansion’s second phase will transform the terminal across all three levels, adding a new 14-gate Terminal E concourse, expandable to 19, capable of handling an additional 10,000-15,000 passengers per day.
It will also add a new ticketing lobby, baggage claim area, baggage handling system, a new security checkpoint, expanded retail and dining options, and chiller plant upgrades.
Additionally, the project includes airside improvements, terminal roadway modifications, passenger boarding bridges, and provisions for future Terminal E gate expansions.
Suffolk’s approach to construction, incorporating data and advanced technologies, is expected to boost efficiency and enhance RSW’s infrastructure, according to the company.
Suffolk Florida Gulf Coast and National Gaming president Pete Tuffo said: “Our collaborative and transparent approach to the early planning and preconstruction of aviation projects helps to address and resolve any challenges well before construction begins.
The Chantilly, Virginia-based infrastructure firm will provide project and contract management throughout construction and early operations of the expanded terminal. The project will add and renovate approximately 200,000 square feet of terminal space, with goals to streamline checkpoint operations, enhance connectivity between concourses, increase airside concessions, and improve the overall passenger experience.
“We are honored to support the Lee County Port Authority to ensure the successful delivery of Phase 1 of the transformative Terminal Expansion Project,” said Mark Fialkowski, president of Infrastructure North America for Parsons. “Our team is committed to applying our extensive expertise in airport infrastructure to enhance the passenger experience in Southwest Florida and to deliver solutions that enhance the region’s mobility and economic growth.”
Parsons will work closely with design, construction management, and inspection teams, as well as other technical advisors and stakeholders. The company plans to combine its internal resources with subconsultants to ensure comprehensive project oversight.
With experience on more than 450 airport projects in 40 countries, Parsons brings a deep knowledge of airport infrastructure aligned with standards from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and International Air Transport Association (IATA).
