Oklahoma City leaders are moving quickly to prepare Will Rogers International Airport for the influx of visitors the 2028 Summer Olympics will bring. The airport’s long‑term expansion plan, unveiled this week, focuses on improving traffic flow, increasing parking capacity, and adding gates to meet the city’s growing travel needs for the next 15‑20 years.
Roundabout construction to begin within two weeks
Construction crews will break ground on a new roundabout near the airport within the next fourteen days. While the project is underway, traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction, a temporary inconvenience that officials say is outweighed by the long‑term safety and efficiency gains. The roundabout is designed to streamline vehicle movement, reduce congestion, and provide a safer crossing point for motorists and pedestrians alike.
$90 million parking garage to support future growth
As part of the same expansion effort, the airport will build a $90 million multi‑level parking garage. The structure will add hundreds of parking spaces, easing the current strain on surface lots and preparing the airport for the expected surge in travelers during the Olympic Games and beyond. Airport officials stress that the garage is a cornerstone of a broader plan that includes future terminal expansions.
Additional gates and passenger amenities
Jeff Mulder, director of Will Rogers International Airport, explained that the master plan calls for expanding ticketing and baggage‑claim areas and ultimately increasing the total number of gates to 40. “We’ve developed plans to meet passenger milestones, to stay ahead of capacity requirements over the next 15, 20 years,” Mulder said. The added gates will allow airlines to increase flight frequencies and add new routes, boosting connectivity for Oklahoma City residents and visitors alike.
Economic and community benefits
The airport’s expansion is expected to generate a significant number of construction jobs in the short term and create lasting employment opportunities in aviation, hospitality, and related service sectors once the Olympics arrive. Local families will benefit from improved travel options, reduced congestion, and a stronger regional economy that can support schools, churches, and small businesses.
What travelers should expect
Passengers using Will Rogers Airport in the coming months are urged to plan ahead for possible lane reductions during the roundabout construction. Airport staff will provide regular updates on traffic conditions and parking availability through the airport’s website and social media channels.
Overall, the expansion reflects Oklahoma City’s commitment to modernizing its infrastructure while preserving the family‑friendly, faith‑centered values that make the community thrive. By investing now, the city positions itself to welcome the world in 2028 and to serve its residents for decades to come.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
