By Bill Parry
A Manhattan design firm has offered a glimpse of what LaGuardia Airport might look like in the future.
Neoscape created renderings of a new Central Terminal Building for the advocacy group Global Gateway Alliance.
Global Gateway Alliance combines the expertise of leaders in business, government, academia and labor working toward improvement of the metropolitan area’s airports. The proposed terminal would be one-third larger than the current central terminal with 1.3 million square feet.
The new $2.4 billion Central Terminal Building will be the centerpiece of LaGuardia’s $3.6 billion redevelopment project, according to the state comptroller’s office.
LaGuardia had 25.7 million passengers in 2012, making it the 20th-largest domestic airport, according to the comptroller’s office, but it still has no rail link. The Neoscape design leaves space for a direct subway line.
Neither Neoscape nor Global Gateway Alliance would comment, while Port Authority spokesman Ron Marisco said, “We have an ongoing process now with finalists completing RFPs that are due this spring. After submission, the RFPs will be reviewed by PA staff and a proposal chosen.”
The LaGuardia redevelopment is expected to be completed in 2021.
“I’m glad the Port Authority is investing in much-needed renovations at LaGuardia Airport,” U.S. Rep. Joe Crowley (D-Jackson Heights) said. “Our first-rate city requires an equally first-rate airport to welcome visitors, and Queens residents who live near LaGuardia deserve to share their neighborhood with a better-looking and better-equipped local landmark. I look forward to seeing the new terminal come to life and hope the Port Authority will work closely with the airport’s neighbors throughout the process.”
Reach reporter Bill Parry by e-mail at bparry@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718-260-4538.
