Rapid City, South Dakota – The Rapid City Regional Airport has opened the first phase of a major terminal expansion aimed at improving passenger flow and safety for baggage workers. The new phase introduces a set of airline ticket counters on the east side of the terminal and replaces the outdated saw‑tooth counters with a linear belt that routes all bags to a single central screening area.
“Under the new design, what we’ve got is a linear bag belt that sends all the bags to the back, where they can go to one spot for screening,” explained Patrick Dame, executive director of the airport. The upgrade also includes a larger, open ticket hall that will replace the old ticket area once a temporary wall is removed.
What the expansion means for travelers
The new layout doubles the check‑in space and adds common‑use counters and self‑service kiosks that airlines can expand into as demand grows. Airport staff are urging passengers to arrive a little earlier while signage is updated and traffic patterns adjust.
“We’re trying to make sure that we’re keeping everything clean… getting them to where they need to be is our commitment,” Dame said.
Future phases and long‑term vision
Phase One is slated to be completed by May. Phase Two will add five gates to the concourse, allowing the airport to accommodate larger 150‑seat aircraft and reduce crowding in holding rooms. A later phase could address car‑rental facilities and parking, including the possibility of a new parking garage.
The roughly $80 million project has been nine to ten years in the making, driven by growth in passenger numbers and a desire to improve safety for baggage handlers who previously pushed carts by hand. “This airport’s got a very bright future, but this is all part of the process,” Dame added.
Local businesses and travelers alike are expected to benefit from the smoother check‑in experience and the airport’s increased capacity to serve larger aircraft, supporting the region’s economic development and tourism.
Original reporting: KOTA (Gray) – local — read the source article.
