In the final episode of The B-Side with Sri season one, Swinerton’s National Director of Aviation Construction, Carrie Shaeffer, shares her story of leadership, resilience, and impact. Host Sri Kumar, President of Connico, talks with Carrie about her unconventional path into construction, her passion for mentoring others, and how she’s helping shape the future of aviation.

Carrie reflects on lessons learned from decades in the industry, the importance of leaning into your strengths, and why giving back is central to her leadership style. Her approach is rooted in intentionality, generosity, and a belief that real success comes from helping others grow.

This episode highlights Carrie’s role in expanding Swinerton’s aviation work and her commitment to building not just projects, but people.

With a newly expanded office in Spokane and a legacy of delivering complex infrastructure projects across the country, Swinerton is uniquely positioned to support the Inland Northwest’s evolving aviation and transportation needs. Our Spokane-based team combines deep regional knowledge with the resources of a national builder—bringing over 135 years of experience in airport parking structures, terminal expansions, and transit-integrated facilities. As Spokane International Airport grows, Swinerton stands ready to contribute innovative, sustainable solutions that enhance mobility, improve passenger experience, and support long-term regional development. Whether supporting civic infrastructure, higher education, or transportation initiatives, Swinerton’s Spokane office is built to serve the region with agility, accountability, and a passion for creating lasting partnerships.

Airport parking structures are more than just a convenience—they’re a critical first point of contact with the airport facility for travelers and a daily necessity for airport staff. With annual passenger numbers beginning to surpass pre-pandemic numbers (IATA), and expected growth of 3.4% to 4.5% annually, airports must evolve to meet growing demand, especially in parking infrastructure. Understanding that parking is often travelers’ first experience at an airport, Swinerton builds each structure with simplicity and efficiency in mind—ensuring maximum stall availability and a streamlined parking process for all users.

Swinerton’s Spokane office, located in the city’s heart, reflects our long-term commitment to the region. With a team of seasoned professionals who live and work in the Inland Northwest, we bring a deep understanding of local priorities, permitting processes, and community values. Our Spokane team is backed by robust resources and a collaborative culture that allows us to scale quickly and deliver complex projects with precision and care.

Recent projects at major airports showcase Swinerton’s ability to deliver large-scale, complex parking structures that enhance mobility, access, and capacity. These facilities offer travelers secure, covered parking and the convenience of arriving in their own vehicles. They also incorporate advanced parking guidance systems, sustainable design features such as EV charging stations, drought-tolerant landscaping, and seamless integration with airport transit systems. In every aviation parking structure project Swinerton takes on, we have been able to navigate working in an active, busy environment and work closely with airport staff to ensure airport operations are uninterrupted. The Spokane team and Swinerton as a company have the resources and experience to meet the needs of a growing aviation presence.

Notable Swinerton airport parking structure projects:

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Economy Parking Structure:

A four-story, 1,730,000-square-foot facility providing approximately 4,300 parking stalls. The project’s scope included progressive design-build services for the largest parking structure Swinerton had constructed. The structure is directly connected to the Automated People Mover (APM) train system via two pedestrian bridges, offering travelers convenient access to the airport without entering the Central Terminal Area. Key features include a fully integrated parking guidance system, smart parking technology, and optimized vehicular circulation with multiple pick-up and drop-off areas. The facility is a mobility hub, offering amenities such as Meet and Greet spaces, public restrooms, vending machines, a pet relief area, water bottle filling stations, and future valet parking. Sustainable elements include EV charging stations, drought-tolerant landscaping, energy-saving LED light controls, and reserved parking for low-emitting vehicles and carpools.

San Diego International Airport (SAN) Terminal 2 Parking Plaza:

The San Diego International Airport Terminal 2 Parking Plaza is a three-level, 920,000-square-foot cast-in-place concrete parking structure providing 2,700 stalls. Delivered through a progressive design-build approach, the project is a primary gateway to the airport, enhancing the traveler experience with advanced technology and sustainable features. The scope included the integration of a Parking Guidance System and License Plate Recognition System to streamline parking and improve passenger convenience. The design incorporates both active and passive safety features, as well as local artwork that doubles as wayfinding cues. Offsite improvements included parking lot reconfigurations, utility relocations, and connections to the existing airport infrastructure. Swinerton self-performed the entire concrete scope of work, ensuring quality and schedule control. The Parking Plaza is highly energy efficient, featuring EV charging stations and energy-saving lighting, and has earned multiple sustainability awards, including Parksmart Gold certification.

Denver International Airport (DEN) MOD 4 East Parking Structure:

The Denver International Airport MOD 4 East Parking Structure is a five-level, 615,400-square-foot cast-in-place parking facility that added over 1,800 stalls to the airport’s capacity. Delivered through a design-build approach, the project addressed the airport’s rapid growth and the need for additional close-in parking options. The scope included relocating utilities tied to critical FAA communications infrastructure, installing new reinforced concrete pipe storm lines, and over 650 feet of 12-inch steel water main to complete the airport’s service loop—all achieved without disrupting airport operations. Additional improvements included the expansion of the Hotel Transit Center loop road and the construction of a mechanically stabilized earth wall to support adjacent raised roadways, facilitating construction logistics and minimizing impacts to airport traffic. The design-build delivery method enabled phased construction, allowing work to begin while design documents were still in progress, reducing the overall project timeline by seven months compared to previous structures.

John Wayne Airport (SNA) Terminal C Parking Structure:

The John Wayne Airport Terminal C Parking Structure in Santa Ana, California, is a five-level, 725,000-square-foot post-tensioned concrete facility providing over 2,000 parking stalls. Delivered by Swinerton, the structure is fully clad in precast concrete panels and was one of the first in the nation to utilize buckling-restrained brace (BRB) technology—a critical advancement for seismic resilience in Southern California. Swinerton self-performed the extensive concrete scope, ensuring structural durability and quality. The parking structure supports the airport’s growing passenger demand and integrates seamlessly with the broader terminal and infrastructure improvements at John Wayne Airport.

At Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, in partnership with WEBMyers, Swinerton is leading the transformation of the Central Passenger Terminal Complex (CPTC) with Phase 1 of a $21 million restroom enhancement project. Commissioned by the City of Atlanta, this initiative is more than a simple upgrade—it is a comprehensive reimagining of six pairs of restrooms across Terminals T, C, F, and the North Terminal. Adding family restrooms is a key feature, ensuring that the needs of all travelers are met with dignity, comfort, and accessibility.

Restrooms are a critical touchpoint in the airport journey. Whether travelers are arriving, departing, or in transit, the quality and functionality of these spaces shape their overall experience. Swinerton recognizes that every detail matters when building for millions, and this project exemplifies the company’s commitment to delivering industry-leading results in high-traffic, operationally complex environments.

“Swinerton’s extensive experience within Hartsfield-Jackson equips our team to tackle the unique challenges that we are expecting at this airport that has welcomed passengers with essentially the same restrooms since 1980,” said Eddy Einem, senior project manager and aviation market leader, Swinerton Atlanta division in a recent Metro Atlanta CEO article. For instance, several of the restrooms are located above electrical and mechanical rooms and the airport’s underground transportation system known as The Plane Train, creating challenging access points. The project is expected to be complete by the end of 2025.

Executing such a transformation in the world’s busiest airport requires meticulous planning and coordination. Swinerton’s approach is rooted in phased construction, allowing facilities to remain operational. This minimizes disruption for travelers and airport staff while enabling the team to modernize layouts, rebuild infrastructure, and address unique challenges—such as working above sensitive mechanical rooms and the plane train. The project’s complexity is further heightened by the need to maintain strict safety and quality standards in an active, 24/7 environment.

A hallmark of Swinerton’s delivery is its self-perform capabilities. For the CPTC restroom enhancements, Swinerton is self-performing drywall, specialties, and cleanup. This hands-on approach ensures consistency, quality, and accountability at every stage. By leveraging in-house expertise, Swinerton maintains direct control over critical aspects of the build, driving efficiency and upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship.

Swinerton’s legacy in the Southeast and at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is built on a foundation of innovation, flexibility, and partnership. The Atlanta Division, established in 2018, has become a trusted resource for aviation and commercial projects, with a proven track record of delivering transformative results for clients such as the City of Atlanta and Delta Air Lines. The team’s deep understanding of local regulations and enterprise-wide resources enables Swinerton to navigate complex permitting processes and deliver projects that balance vision, budget, quality, and schedule.

As a 100% employee-owned company, Swinerton’s culture of ownership, integrity, and excellence is evident in every project. The CPTC restroom enhancement is a testament to the company’s ability to respond to any challenge—regardless of size, location, or complexity—and deliver value beyond individual projects. Through collaboration, innovation, and a relentless focus on client needs, Swinerton continues to shape the future of airport infrastructure, one detail at a time.

Because at Swinerton, building is not just what we do—it is who we are.

Learn about other ways Swinerton is building better experiences to keep passengers moving.

It starts with a quiet moment—away from the gate, beyond the crowds, and above the noise. For millions of travelers, airport lounges have become more than a perk; they are a destination. And the demand is soaring. Travelers are seeking out and paying for better airport experiences, elevated comfort, moments of calm, and premium food and beverage options. This demand has pushed airlines and membership credit card companies to prioritize the build-out of lounges that offer a curated experience that transforms the airport wait into something enjoyable, even memorable. Nearly half of all travelers have visited a lounge, and according to market research firm Research and Markets, the $4.21 billion airport lounge industry is expected to double by 2029. As airlines and credit card companies race to meet this growing demand, they are not just building spaces—they are crafting experiences that blend local flair with luxury and serenity.

“Airport lounges have become an essential part of the passenger journey,” shares Carrie Shaeffer, Swinerton vice president and national director of aviation. “From a construction standpoint, we are seeing increased demand for spaces that deliver a premium experience with curated details and enhanced systems that integrate seamlessly within the complexities of an active terminal environment.”

Behind the calm and luxurious ambiance lies a complex story of construction, collaboration, and creativity. Building a lounge in an active airport is like performing surgery mid-flight. Access is limited, space is tight, and every decision must prioritize safety for crews, passengers, and the airport itself.

Speed and safety go hand in hand when building in an active airport environment. To meet rising demand, project teams must work with precision and purpose, with every move planned and every detail accounted for. Security protocols require every worker to be vetted and badged, and daily engagement with airport authorities, vendors and trade partners keeps progress moving. Safety plans are tailored to each site, and crews begin each day with briefings, empowered to stop work if risks arise. Thousands of hours often pass without a single incident, thanks to a safety-first culture. Barriers and public-facing signage keep passengers safely moving throughout the airport, ensuring they reach their destination.

“Working in an active airport means every move is planned, says Patrick Wilcox, Swinerton National Aviation senior account manager. “Keeping passengers, crews and staff safely moving is the highest priority, and it is why constant communication with airport operations and other stakeholders is critical. In these environments, there is no room for shortcuts.”

Constructing in these environments means solving problems creatively and managing logistics precisely. Ceiling congestion, tight schedules, and evolving design standards push teams to rethink traditional approaches. Early virtual design coordination and strategic trade sequencing ensure that both technical upgrades, such as mechanical and electrical systems, and high-visibility features, like custom ceilings, stone finishes, and millwork, are implemented without sacrificing quality or budget. Today’s lounges feature biometric check-in, spa-like showers, curated menus, and panoramic views. Materials are chosen for both beauty and durability, ensuring the space remains flawless even after thousands of guests pass through daily.

Across terminals and time zones, the story is the same: building airport lounges is a complex, collaborative, and gratifying endeavor. “Airport lounges are not just spaces; they are the first impression of an adventure or a relaxing recharge during an extended trip,” continues Wilcox. “It is where architecture meets aviation, and where the journey begins not at the gate, but in a space designed to elevate every moment before takeoff.”

From the moment travelers step inside, they are surrounded by the airline’s signature palette of deep blues, crisp whites, and subtle reds. Carefully selected furniture from renowned French designers adds character and comfort, while bespoke millwork and high-end finishes bring a sense of calm to the space. The lounge reflects Air France’s identity, blending elegance with thoughtful amenities like private showers, phone rooms, a commercial kitchen serving seasonal, locally sourced fare, and a Private VIP Lounge with its own pantry. Expansive views of the runway further elevate the guest experience, offering a unique backdrop of planes taxiing by.

Bringing this space to life in an active international terminal required careful coordination and creative problem-solving. Swinerton, working closely with Air France, Gensler and Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA), managed selective demolition, upgraded fire safety systems, and installed new mechanical, electrical and plumbing infrastructure, all while minimizing disruption to nearby tenants and travelers. The team also navigated complex logistical challenges, from securing approvals for deliveries onto the sixth floor of the concourse by removing and reinstalling perimeter panels to complete the build. The lounge also reflects a commitment to sustainability and inclusion, with diverse subcontractors contributing to the project and design choices that prioritize longevity over trend. From navigating airport security protocols and working hours constraints to managing a fast-tracked schedule, every step of the project was shaped by collaboration, adaptability, and a shared vision of creating a space where travelers can pause, recharge, and enjoy a touch of French hospitality before their next flight.

“Our goal was to deliver a lounge that embodies the elegance and hospitality of Air France,” says Elisabeth McArdle, project manager. “From navigating construction in an active terminal to integrating bespoke finishes, every detail was approached with care and collaboration. The result is a timeless space we’re honored to have built—one that enhances the journey for every traveler who steps inside.”

Designed with comfort and elegance in mind, the 165-seat lounge blends thoughtful amenities with a distinctly San Francisco vibe. Guests enter through biometric e-gates and walk a long corridor lined with stone panels and custom millwork before arriving in a space that feels more like a boutique hotel than an airport lounge. There are zones for relaxation, work, and privacy, each outfitted with leather armchairs, USB ports, and views of the airfield. A full bar, a self-serve bistro, spa-style showers with heated towel racks, and an outdoor terrace with vapor fireplaces create an experience that is both functional and indulgent. Local and Canadian artwork adds warmth and personality, while high-end finishes like NanaWalls and hidden storage elevate the design.

Building a space like this in the middle of a busy airport was no easy task. The team navigated tight schedules, active airside operations, and complex logistics to bring the lounge to life. Every detail—from ceiling systems to waterproofing—required careful planning and problem-solving. Despite the challenges, the project was completed on time and nearly six percent under budget. The result is a lounge that does not just serve travelers, it welcomes them, offering a moment of calm before takeoff and a reason to look forward to the next journey.

“Delivering the Maple Leaf Lounge on time and under budget is something that our team is incredibly proud of,” shares Andre Rollolazo, aviation market champion and senior project manager. “In complex environments, which included an outdoor patio space and complex logistics on the fourth floor, that kind of outcome does not happen by chance. It takes open communication with the Airport Operations & Aviation Security Team and remaining proactive to achieve the client’s goals. While performing follow-up site visits, the lounge is praised by passengers and the lounge staff alike.”

Swinerton led the Phase 2 renovation, turning 4,500 square feet into a refined space that reflects Delta’s latest Sky Club standards. With seating for 100 guests, the lounge features Italian tile, custom lighting imported from the Czech Republic, quartz countertops and wooden veneer paneling. Every detail was considered, from custom banquettes with wireless charging to radius cove ceilings and concealed doors. The space also includes a full kitchen, food service bar and liquor bar, all constructed to offer travelers a comfortable, elevated experience between flights.

To bring this design to life, the team had to navigate the complexities of working within an active terminal. Significant infrastructure upgrades were required, including electrical, plumbing, and kitchen utilities routed above retail spaces. Gaining access meant working closely with Delta operations, Atlanta Airport Terminal Company and concourse concessionaires. Temporary scaffolding was installed over an active escalator, timed precisely to avoid disrupting airport traffic or vendor operations. Every step of the build was a balancing act. Through collaboration and careful planning, the lounge was completed with the quality and attention to detail that travelers have come to expect from Delta’s Sky Club experience.

“Completing a renovation in the middle of the country’s busiest airport takes more than technical skills. It requires trust, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence,” says Derek Mosiman, vice president and division manager. “Thanks to our partnership with Delta and project team members, we were able to deliver a high-performance space that meets the Sky Club standard and enhances the passenger experience.”

From the moment it opened, the lounge became a destination itself, featuring a double-sided living wall, the largest main bar in the Centurion network, a live cooking station, a craft beer bar and a game room. The design draws inspiration from Colorado’s natural beauty, with geometric ceiling installations and a mural of the Rockies anchoring the space. Every detail, from the locally inspired finishes to the full-service kitchen and spa-like amenities, was crafted to give American Express members a place to recharge, work, or simply enjoy the view.

Over the duration of construction, the Swinerton team and its partners navigated a variety of challenges and leaned into collaboration to keep construction progressing every single day through creative problem-solving and a shared commitment to safety. From escorting subcontractors across the airfield to security protocols, the team embraced a “One Team” mindset that carried them through every challenge.

“Constructing The Centurion Lounge involved working with multiple stakeholders to solve unique challenges and complex conditions within the existing DEN environment,” shares Bradley Monson, project executive. “It was our team’s innovation and dedication that kept the project moving forward, resulting in a lounge that meets the client’s high standards.”

Designed to reflect the airline’s refined brand experience, the lounge features seating for 140 guests, private shower suites and restrooms, a full-service bar, a commercial kitchen, and dedicated spaces for dining, working, and resting. High-end finishes, custom millwork, and premium furnishings create a polished, tranquil environment where guests can recharge before takeoff.

Every aspect of construction took place airside—beyond TSA checkpoints and above active concessionaires—adding layers of complexity to even the most routine tasks. Crews worked in multiple shifts to maintain momentum, while coordinating closely with LAWA and terminal stakeholders to safely execute complex tasks like cutting into the deck to install a viewing platform overlooking the main terminal. Swinerton’s deep experience at LAX was critical in navigating strict security protocols, limited laydown space, and 24/7 operational constraints. The team overcame logistical challenges to deliver a lounge that meets United’s high standards while minimizing disruption to the terminal below.

The Swinerton Experience

From international airports to regional and municipal hubs, Swinerton has been a trusted partner to the aviation industry for over 60 years. Our experience spans 50 airports and airfields across the country, delivering over $200 million in lounge construction projects.

As one of the nation’s top builders in both aviation and hospitality, Swinerton delivers quality spaces for relaxation and enjoyment. From premium spaces with high-end finishes to infrastructure upgrades to provide exclusive access, our diverse projects are built with the same goal in mind: an exceptional passenger experience.

We understand the sensitivities of working in an operational airport environment, and we facilitate careful coordination with all stakeholders. As we take our clients to new heights, we provide peace of mind with our commitment to excellence and decades of expertise.

Construction at airports is often complex and can significantly impact travelers and employees. However, it does not have to.

Swinerton’s expertise?crafts seamless experiences for travelers and airport personnel alike. Recognized among the top 20 aviation general contractors by?Engineering News-Record (ENR)?and?Building Design + Construction (BD+C), our portfolio spans international hubs like?Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)?and?Hartsfield-Jackson (ALT)?to regional facilities such as?Long Beach Airport (LGB)?and?beyond. Our priority is to keep passengers moving by deeply understanding each airport’s unique air- and landside operations.

Setting New Standards in Airport Construction

In collaboration with our mass timber affiliate Timberlab, Swinerton played a crucial role in renovating Portland International Airport’s (PDX) main terminal, which features the world’s largest mass timber roof. This impressive structure, totaling 3.5 million board feet, features 80-foot-long glulam beams and 35,000 pieces of intricately fabricated lattice. Our dedicated project team led efforts on local sourcing, working closely with regional suppliers across 10 forests promoting local economic development and sustainable forestry practices.

The glulam beams reduced the embodied carbon footprint of the structure when compared to structural steel and saved millions of dollars on the project. Our prefabrication and erection strategy minimized the impact on the traveling public through the airport, which remained operational through construction.

At LAX, we designed and constructed the?LAX Economy Parking Structure?with Watry Design and Gensler, redefining convenience and accessibility for travelers and staff. This visionary project, boasting ?4,300 parking stalls, transcends mere functionality with amenities like a meet-and-greet space, public restrooms and a dedicated pet relief area. Cutting-edge technology, including a parking guidance system, electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure and drought-resistant landscaping, highlight the project’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Elevating Passenger Experience During Airport Construction

Navigating the intricate landscape of airport construction demands precision and foresight. Our adeptness in overcoming logistical challenges while adhering to stringent regulatory standards ensures minimal disruption to airport operations, even during peak travel seasons, setting higher standards in the industry.

At the Denver International Airport (DEN), Swinerton recently completed United Airlines’ $34 million Gates of the Future project, transforming 60 gates across Concourse B and the South Finger Regional Gates. This comprehensive renovation enhances the passenger experience through modern seating with integrated power outlets, ADA-compliant design elements exceeding accessibility requirements, enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity, self-service kiosks and dynamic queuing systems.

Working within the world’s sixth-busiest airport, we completed this complex renovation without a single flight delay or operational disruption. Through meticulous planning and overnight construction, our teams maintained continuous gate operations while delivering modern amenities that align with United’s vision for the future of air travel.

Similarly, at LGB, our multi-phased project to construct a?new ticketing facility?seamlessly integrates modern amenities with the airport’s 80-year-old?historic terminal. This endeavor not only enhances passenger circulation but also ?integrates the?Checked Baggage Inspection System?(CBIS) facility, which allows the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to screen checked bags more efficiently, further streamlining the passenger travel experience.

Executing Complex Airport Renovations

At?Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport?in Atlanta, our collaboration with Delta Air Lines to build a new?Centerpoint Sky Club?exemplifies the company’s prowess in executing complex renovations. From safely installing structural steel over a bustling terminal to crafting bespoke interiors with high-end finishes, Swinerton’s attention to detail ensures an unparalleled passenger experience.

“I am inspired by our relentless commitment to crafting seamless airport experiences,” says Carrie Shaeffer, Swinerton vice president and national director of aviation. “From redefining convenience to integrating modern amenities, airside and landside, our dedication to excellence ensures smooth journeys for passengers to their destinations and staff to navigate their day.”

Our?portfolio?highlights our dedication to ensuring that a passenger’s experience at the airport is positive while airport operations remain uninterrupted. As we continue to push the boundaries of innovation and expertise, we remain at the forefront of shaping the?future of airport infrastructure, one visionary project at a time.

Connect with our team at the 2025 AAAE/ACC Airport Planning, Design, and Construction Symposium.

Dallas Business Journal

Construction is underway on a new passenger terminal to support commercial flights out of McKinney National Airport and is expected to be completed in fall 2026.

California-based Swinerton Builders began construction on the new 46,000-square-foot terminal on July 18, following years of debate. Work on the $58million facility is expected to wrap up in November 2026, a city spokes person said in an Aug. 4 email.

Commercial flights are expected to begin later that year. The development will turn McKinney National Airport, which goes by code “TKI,” into the third commercial airport in the Dallas-Fort Worth region and the first in booming Collin County.

“This new terminal is not just an investment in McKinney. It’s an investment in the future of North Texas,” McKinney Mayor Bill Cox said during the July 18 ground breaking ceremony.

The project also includes a new aircraft apron, 980 parking spaces with the capacity to expand to 1,450 and a new roundabout to manage traffic from FM546. The entire expansion has a price tag of $79 million, funded by sales tax revenue bonds from the McKinney Economic Development Corp. and McKinney Community Development Corp., a Texas Department of Transportation grant, tax increment reinvestment zone funds, city utility and airport construction funds and airport operating revenue.

The commercial terminal will initially open with four gates, with the potential to expand to six in the future. Airport officials predict serving 200,000passengers in the first year of operation, with an average of three daily departures. By 2031, the airport could serve 1 million passengers a year.

“I was proud to work with the city while drafting the [Federal Aviation Administration] Reauthorization Act and to provide support to help launch this project,” Sen. Ted Cruz said during the July 18 ceremony. “This is a major milestone that will bring jobs and promote economic growth in North Texas.”

Last year, Swinerton broke ground on a pivotal project to expand the transportation capacity of North Texas. The project is delivering a new 40,000 square foot hangar, Corporate Hangar 10, and a new 3,200-square-foot U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility at McKinney National Airport, which will allow international flights to land and taxi directly to customs, expediting and streamlining the process for travelers.

The project taps architecture and engineering team JRMA and Garver and is being uniquely delivered under a Public- Private Partnership (P3) led by developer Griffin Swinerton. As population booms exacerbate infrastructure gaps across the country, P3 deal structures are quickly emerging for their ability to leverage the strengths of the private sector to finance, build, and manage public infrastructure, typically offering a more balanced allocation of risk, opportunity for innovation, and streamlined project execution with cost and performance guarantees. This opens up opportunities for counties and cities to deliver world-class facilities for their communities without placing unnecessary burden on local taxpayers.

For the City of McKinney, the P3 development method is enabling the City to maintain ownership and oversight of the facilities, while tapping Griffin Swinerton’s network of resources and expertise to design, permit, and construct the new facilities alongside Swinerton.

George Fuller, Mayor of McKinney, says, “The Swinerton and Griffin Swinerton team has done an excellent job partnering with the City to facility a smooth P3 delivery process, and we’re excited to see the results.”

New Commercial Terminal Project Expands Impact in Texas

Another pivotal project will reshape the airport, this time opening it up to commercial travel. The City has awarded Swinerton the contract for a 45,000-square-foot commercial airport terminal facility at McKinney National Airport, alongside design and engineering team Corgan and Garver.

Pending final city council approval, the terminal will include three gates for arrivals and departures—with space to accommodate future expansion to five—and will feature a public arrival check-in area, concessions, hold rooms, airline support areas, ramp operations, and rental car counters. Other plans for the terminal include food and beverage concessions, passenger holding rooms, above-ground jet fuel tanks, other extensive airside site development, and a parking lot with up to 1,500 spots.

The City estimates that the terminal could see 200,000 passengers in its first year of passenger service, and up 1 million annual passengers by its fifth year. This estimate trends inline with the recent population boom in the Dallas area. The metroplex consistently ranks among the fastest growth metropolitan areas in the United States. Of the top 10 fastest-growing cities in the country ranked last year by the U.S. Census Bureau, four were in Collin County, which stretches from North Dallas and includes the communities of McKinney, Plano, and Celina.

McKinney National Airport will mark the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex’s third regional airport and has been strategically planned to serve these fast-growing cities in North Texas. The airport will provide greater convenience and flexibility to residents of Collin County and nearby communities— while also easing the burden on Dallas Love Field and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, the latter of which was ranked the third busiest airport in the country last year by the Federal Aviation Administration.

As a community contractor with national reach, Swinerton is proud to continue its commitment to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and invest in the continued growth and prosperity of North Texas.

Aviation Pros