HIGHFILL -- Construction crews using a crane lifted a steel beam along with a cedar tree and an American flag to the roof of the terminal at Northwest Arkansas National Airport on Thursday, topping out the steel work for the terminal modernization project.
Having the project come about during the airport's 25th year of operation wasn't planned, according to Aaron Burkes, airport CEO.
"We're just a few days away from our 25th anniversary; obviously that wasn't planned," Burkes said. "We're really excited to see the progress on this important project for the region, and we're excited to see what happens when it's all done."
Airport officials broke ground in mid-March on the $34 million terminal renovation and modernization project. It's expected to take a couple of years to complete.
The renovation will add more elevators, escalators and stairwells and new baggage-handling equipment. The federal Transportation Security Administration and police areas will be renovated. There also will be a host of architectural upgrades, including new paint, terrazzo floors, lighting and sound baffles, a new information desk and new flight information displays.
Howard Kerr, vice chairman of the airport board, said the project is about creating a functional and inviting place that will continue to be an asset for residents of the region.
"Twenty-five years ago, our airport opened its doors, and since then it's been a testament to the vital role it has played in connecting Northwest Arkansas to the world," Kerr said. "Our airport is more than just a transportation hub. It is a gateway that facilitates the movement of people, goods and ideas, all of which are essential to the growth of Northwest Arkansas."
Kerr said airport officials must continue working to provide services to the residents of the area who now rely on the airport.
"We must adapt to change, embrace innovation and remain committed to providing a world-class airport," he said.
The terminal modernization project is being done by Nabholz Construction. Rob Dodd, executive vice president for operations at Nabholz, said the airport terminal represents the front door to the community, and the renovation planning process began more than five years ago.
"This is a major milestone, and we like to pause and reflect on that journey," he said.
Dodd said the topping out of a new building is a European tradition with Scandinavian roots that was brought to America long ago.
"The ancient Scandinavians, they believed the trees were their ancestors and all structures were built out of wood at that time, so when they got finished with a structure they'd take an evergreen tree, which they considered to be a good spirit, and place it on top of the structure to appease their misplaced ancestors that were used to build the building," Dodd said.
Nabholz construction workers place the final beam Thursday during at topping out ceremony for the terminal modernization project at Northwest Arkansas National Airport. The project will bring a variety of upgrades to the terminal. Visit nwaonline.com/photo for todays photo gallery. (NWA Democrat-Gazette/Caleb Grieger)
Rob Dodd speaks to the crowd Thursday during a topping out ceremony for the terminal modernization project at Northwest Arkansas National Airport in Highfill. Dodd is the executive vice president of operations at Nabholz Construction, which is handling the project that will bring a variety of upgrades to the terminal. Visit nwaonline.com/photo for todays photo gallery. (NWA Democrat-Gazette/Caleb Grieger)