b'TERMINALSACT 65demand amenities. An emergency generator system, currently on backorder, is slated for installation by mid-March. The process of redesigning the dated terminal while COVID-19 raged required flexibility. When in-person meetings were not an option, the project team used videoconferences. The remote technology proved especially helpful to secure input from the city council, airport advisory board, airlines and other tenants. Having those conversations helped us establish the expectations, Martinez explains. The collaborative effort by involving as many airport stakeholders and community stakeholders as possible at inception of the project really helped the finished project meet those expectations. For CaCo, that process included benchmarking ACT with similarly sized airports around the country. Keeping in mind the airports goal of modernization, designers focused on ensuring a seamless transition from ACT to various hub airports. We always kept in mind that the experience of a customer at Waco should be equal to the one that they have at DFWthe same level of amenities and quality of materials, Diaz explains.relocate a stormwater line, anddated, adds Robertorecover salaries for airport personnel. Diaz, AIA, associatePhasing principal with CaCo.Beginning in August 2022, five carefully Looks Matter The project wascoordinated phases shifted operations to just In fall 2021, the airport contractednot only aboutone gate while crews renovated the other. CaCo Architecture to develop plans forenhancing the facilityTemporary passenger screening facilities were renovating its aging terminal. The firm hadfor passengers,set up in a former concessions area while the already begun designing improvementsbut also for airlinesROBERTO DIAZnew TSA checkpoint was built. Once that to the roof and heating, ventilation andand other tenants. We wanted towas ready for passengers, work shifted to the cooling system, so it was an opportunemodernize and improve the aesthetic,second gate area.time to renovate the terminal interior, too.says Martinez. Specific changes includedAt one point, temporary restrooms were The HVAC/roofing project and terminalfresh carpeting and terrazzo flooring, newneeded. So for three months, the airport renovation were combined into a singlewall systems, replacing the old roof andprovided facilities in trailers parked outside package, and Hensel Phelps was selectedconverting lighting fixtures throughout thethe terminal. We were thankful that our as the general contractor.terminal to LEDs. patrons were patient through that process, The last comprehensive terminalRestrooms were remodeled withbecause thats never fun, Martinez remarks. renovation at ACT occurred in 1999.updated and more efficient fixtures as wellHowever, the temporary restrooms and Since then, there have been additions,as wider stalls with longer partitions forscreening facilities, combined with an but no major projects to update themore privacy and a contemporary look.aggressive construction schedule, allowed existing facility. This project addressedThe airport also added a family restroom. ACT to complete its comprehensive terminal everything from the front door to therenovation in about 17 months.boarding bridges, Martinez explains. WeWireless connectivity has been improved throughout the terminal.Quiet hours with restricted decibel levels went through the entire facility. And charging stations, workstationsfor contractors were established from 9:30 It was starting to really show its age,and in-seat charging outlets provideto 11:00 a.m. and again from 4:30 to 6:45 and the whole design was somewhattravelers with one of the most in- p.m., but flexed according to changing airline schedules. Dust barriers and temporary AirportImprovement.comMarch | April 2024'