MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Finally, a new look for our old airport.
For hundreds of thousands, if not millions of visitors every year, Memphis International is their first impression of our city.
Let's face it. For decades, it failed to impress. However, our new concourse is as nice a facility as you'll see anywhere.
Here are some interesting facts from Tuesday:
- The concourse cost $245 million with none of it from local taxes.
- The Airport Authority projects its 23 gates will be wide enough to handle Memphis passengers for about 10 years. That's because the gates are wide enough apart, they can accommodate an aircraft of almost any size.
- Most gates won't be assigned to just one airline, giving the airport more flexibility.
Amenities include USB ports and outlets at every seat, a play area for kids, a stage for live music to celebrate our musical history, and $1 million spent on artwork supporting local artists.
Future phases call for improvements to the terminal and baggage claim areas. But, for now, let's celebrate an airport that belongs in the right century.