More Gates, More Security Lines Coming To MSP?
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Your next trip out of town could soon become a lot easier. Officials at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport laid out several changes they'd like to make on Tuesday.
The changes include three additional gates at Terminal 2, also known as the Humphrey Terminal, plus more security lines and an on-site hotel. The changes would raise the number of gates from 10 to 13.
Airport officials are also discussing building one or two additional parking ramps due to the increased growth from Spirit and Sun Country airlines.
The entire project would cost millions of dollars, which would largely come from traveler user fees, plus a few federal grants and additional state funding.
The Metropolitan Airports Commission, which oversees MSP operations, must get the go-ahead from its board first.
"It's the passenger number we are interested in," said Melissa Scovronski, MSP spokeswoman. "Our airfield can handle a certain number of take offs and landing but passenger facilities, terminals, parking are where we are starting to really see the crunch."
Officials say the No. 1 goal is to make the experience faster and smoother for passengers.
If approved, construction on these projects would begin in 2016.
Speaking of changes at MSP, if you're going to the airport soon, you may want to plan some extra time to check out a new spot to eat.
The Minnesota Wild say they're opening a restaurant in Terminal 2.
It'll be called, "The Wild" and will take over the "Fletcher's Wharf's" space.
And you can bet this place is going to be decked out with hockey memorabilia, including a bar made out of broken sticks.
The menu will include meatloaf, fish and chips, sandwiches, salads and flatbreads.
The Wild restaurant will open late next month.
