2 Major Upgrades Ahead For SEA Airport

SEATTLE — The Port of Seattle is moving forward with two big upgrades planned at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, including an overhaul of ticketing, security and baggage claim areas and a remodel of the S Concourse.

Port commissioners authorized more than $250 million for the two projects this week as part of an estimated $4.6 billion in "Upgrade SEA" investments planned over the next five years. The airport recently completed a slate of improvements across one million square feet, including the new international arrivals facility and modernized N Concourse.

"SEA has been one of the fastest growing airports for a decade, mirroring the growth happening in the region," said Lance Lyttle, the airport's managing director. "During peak periods our terminal is stretched to its max, making it a challenge to deliver the efficient, predictable experience that passengers deserve. To hit our efficiency and customer service goals we need to build up, modernize where we can, and introduce new technology.

Nearly $160 million of the recently-approved funding will support a partnership with Alaska Airlines to complete the first phase of the "SEA Gateway Project," renovating the terminal's north end to utilize natural light and open space to streamline passengers traveling through ticketing and security, port officials said.

The first phase of construction is scheduled for completion next summer, followed by the second phase in mid-2025. Phase one will expand employee office and ticket counter spaces while adding new check-in kiosks and other technology upgrades. Phase two will drastically reconfigure passenger streams at the ticketing level and expand security checkpoint lanes to correct long-term bottlenecks.

Another $100 million will fund the first portion of the "S Concourse Evolution," renovating a main international hub to meet growing demand with updated more space amenities, restaurants, and lounges, along with modern seismic upgrades. The multi-year project will be completed in several phases, scheduled to wrap up in 2031.

Port commissioners also approved funding for a final phase of restroom renovations, adding to those updraded in the B, C and D concourses. Officials said the newer restrooms have brighter lighting, improved water conservation, touchless technology and larger stalls.

More information on all of the airport's upgrade projects is available on the Port of Seattle's website.