Denver's Great Hall Project Progresses

July 8, 2021

By Kevan James

Yesterday (July 7), Denver International Airport (DEN) Chief Executive Officer Kim Day was joined by Alan Salazar, Chief of Staff for Mayor Michael B. Hancock; Larry Nau, TSA Federal Security Director, Colorado; and Derek Hoffine, Hensel Phelps Vice President and District Manager for a ground-breaking ceremony for Phase 2 of the Great Hall Project. The primary focus of Phase 2 is to enhance security by building a new security checkpoint on Level 6 in the northwest corner of the Jeppesen Terminal.

“The new security checkpoint will have improved technology and a new queuing concept that will provide more effective and efficient security,” said Day. “These improvements combined with the new ticketing pods being constructed as part of Phase 1 will ultimately allow us to build a terminal for the future with enhanced security, increased capacity, improved operational efficiency and an elevated passenger experience.”

All Phase 2 work will be done in mid-2024. However, the new checkpoint is scheduled to open by early 2024. Passengers will then have access to the new checkpoint on Level 6 as well as the north checkpoint and the existing A-bridge checkpoint. Additionally, the new checkpoint on Level 6 creates a future opportunity to activate the vacated south security space on Level 5 with new concessions and improved meeter/greeter amenities.

“As DEN continues to grow, it is critical that we invest in the airport and prepare for the future. The Great Hall project does just that,” said Mayor Michael B. Hancock. “Completing the security work is our top priority as we move forward with this project and prepare DEN for the future and we are thoughtfully examining potential efficiencies and budget before we make this decision.”

Phase 2 work will take place simultaneously with Phase 1 as crews complete the work on the new ticketing areas for United and Southwest Airlines. With the completion of Phase 1 by the end of the year, there will also be four new restrooms and more square footage to improve passenger flow on Level 6.

Hensel Phelps is the contractor on both phases of the Great Hall Project. Phase 1 is currently about $25 million under budget and both phases will be completed within the original $770 million budget.

The Great Hall Project will enhance security, improve operational efficiency and increase capacity of the terminal to accommodate at least 80 million passengers.

All images courtesy of Denver International Airport

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