16 TERMINALS September 2026 AirportImprovement.com FCA Supply chain disruptions also affected electrical, mechanical and roofing system deliveries. Still, the project team found solutions, including alternative manufacturing or other viable methods to expedite delivery and/or bridge gaps within the budget. Forgays credits Ratkowski and his staff for their partnership during that challenging period, particularly FCA Director of Development Daniel Reimer, who served as an in-house owner’s representative during construction. “He’s lived and breathed this job for the last six or seven years,” Ratkowski says of Reimer. Forgays also highlights Swank Enterprises’ ability to secure timber and execute the project’s many wood-based elements. The firm’s local relationship with trades proved critical, he notes. “We sought Swank as the premier local general contractor and combined that with our aviation expertise to deliver the project,” Forgays says. Close to 40 subcontractors were involved throughout the three phases. At peak, 150 skilled workers could be found onsite. Beyond the pandemic, additional challenges lurked underground due to water tables near the airport that rise close to the surface. Engineers overcame the natural impediment by adding a massive water-retention barrier to keep the airport’s new basement spaces dry. They specified Zypex, a material typically used to keep water inside concrete tanks. Forgays explains that crews dug wells to measure water levels each week. Once the groundwater hit its nadir in the fall, workers quickly dug deep into the earth to build foundations before ground water levels rose following the winter snowfall and springtime runoff. Once more, Swank’s local expertise played a huge role. MORE THAN A CONSULTANT A trusted partner, passionate about aviation, dedicated to the industry, and committed to your airport ENGINEERS & PLANNERS 407-599-1122 www.avconinc.com SPECIALIZING IN BAGGAGE HANDLING SOLUTIONS If you would like more information on our product and services please contact us at: PHONE: 403-230-1140 | 888-328-8826 | FAX: 403-293-9774 GSAirportConveyor.com MAINTENANCE Manufacture Installation DESIGN | BUILD PHOTO: ANDREW BASSETT A new outdoor patio gives departing travelers one last look at the airfield and Big Sky Country.
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