The massive $19 billion JFK redevelopment project will not only knock down six outdated terminals and replace them with four much larger state-of-the-art hubs, but it will also create a new roadway network to connect them.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey announced on June 26 that it has signed a $1.24 billion contract to design and build new streamlined roadways, a ground transportation center and supporting infrastructure in a joint venture with Skanska and Halmar International LLC.
“We are committed to creating a world-class passenger experience at JFK, from the spacious new terminals already underway that will be among the best in the world to the streamlined roadways and a best-in-class ground transportation center that will be built under the new contract announced today,” Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton said. “As with every project in the public-private $19 billion JFK redevelopment, this contract will also provide historic opportunities for minority- and women-owned businesses and local businesses.”
The design-build project consists of the design and construction of the on-airport roadway transportation network, which includes roadway reconfiguration, maintenance and protection of traffic during construction, intuitive wayfinding and enhanced traffic technologies, at-grade pavement, retaining walls and bridges as well as utility relocations and upgrades.
“The transformation of JFK into a global gateway that will rival the best in the world would not be complete without the roads, parking and infrastructure to match,” Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole said. “When we are done, JFK will be as easy to access as it is beautiful to behold, serving as the front door to the region that it deserves.”
Parsons Corporation will serve as lead designer for the project, which will include a multi-level vehicle parking facility with a capacity for 1,950 spaces that will be equipped with electric vehicle charging stations, and a new passenger connector from the facility to New Terminal One.
“Home to one of the busiest airports in the United States’ largest city, JFK International Airport is part of our nation’s economic engine,” said Mark Fialkowski, president of mobility solutions business unit for Parsons. “The new two main loops will simplify roadway operation and create a more travel-friendly experience for the more than 62 million passengers who come through JFK each year. We are proud to build on our decades of experience in New York State, partnering with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to continue to move the industry forward and provide exceptional service to the region for decades to come.”
When complete, the roadway network will dramatically improve access to the airport by simplifying the existing complex roadway network, providing easier-to-navigate access to terminals with improved frontage areas and building a new ground transportation center for passengers to connect to taxis, for-hire vehicles, mass transit and parking.
“Our team has worked at every major airport in the New York metropolitan area, including more than 15 contracts working on every area of JFK Airport. We know the airport and we understand the critical nature of aircraft operations and movements security, as well as safe access and customer experience,” said Chris Larsen, CEO of Halmar International LLC. “Together with Skanska, we bring PANYNJ a reliable partner to build the future of JFK the State of New York deserves.”
The project is expected to be completed by December 2027, in line with new terminal construction, providing access for all new terminals at completion without interruptions to existing operations, according to the Port Authority and Skanska.
“We are honored to have the opportunity to design and construct a world-class landside gateway for one of New York’s most highly traveled international aviation hubs,” said Michael Viggiano, executive vice president for Skanska USA Civil’s East Coast region. “Not only will the project improve connectivity of JFK’s roadway network, but it will also enhance the overall experience for passengers traveling to and from the airport.”
