BLUE GRASS AIRPORT COMPLETES
TERMINAL RENOVATIONS
Goals of Accessibility, Energy Efficiency
and a Signature Kentucky Theme are incorporated
in Design

February 2, 2010 – Today, Blue Grass Airport and elected officials unveiled the latest renovations to the airport terminal’s lobby level.  Renovations of approximately $2.6 million were unveiled, including the terrazzo floor in front of the security checkpoint that charts the sire lineage of the Thoroughbred.

Entitled Prominent Sire Lines in America 2000, it is one of the most comprehensive genealogies of the Thoroughbred horse ever produced, encompassing more than 300 years of breeding history.  The sire lines include Nasrullah, Unbridled, Seattle Slew, Mr. Prospector and Northern Dancer among others.  More than 800 horses are included in this concentric circular format published by Prominent Sire Lines, LLC.

“This unique floor design traces American breeding history back to the late 1600s,” said Bobby Owens, chairman of the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Airport Board.  “We are pleased to recognize these stallions that have made an indelible mark on the equine industry and are proud that visitors to our airport will discover a piece of the Commonwealth that we treasure so much.”

In addition to this tribute to the Thoroughbred, the Kentucky theme throughout the first level of the terminal includes a design representative of the pattern of jockey silks incorporated in the terrazzo floor and limestone facings at all terminal entryways.  Terminal renovations also include new airline ticket counters conforming to Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines, replacement of the ceiling system, updated signage, relocation of the Information Center and new floor and wall finishes.

“The beauty of the Bluegrass has always been on full display from the air for passengers flying into or out of our airport.  Now, that same beauty will be on full display in the terminal to greet our visitors,” Mayor Jim Newberry said.  “We greatly appreciate the assistance we have received from Governor Beshear and the legislature to help us get our airport ready for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, but also to enable this facility to continue to meet the growing needs of our city and Bluegrass region.”

Throughout the design stages of this project, Blue Grass Airport sought to provide energy efficient products in the terminal.  Replacements for old lighting fixtures and heating and cooling equipment were incorporated into an Energy Management System.  A high-volume, low-speed ceiling fan was installed in the lobby area to maximize cooling during the summer and heat distribution in the winter. The new fan with its large, 18-foot diameter is expected to provide energy-savings and cost-savings to the airport.

The terminal interior renovation is part of more than $55 million worth of improvement projects underway at Blue Grass Airport. Other projects include replacement of a crosswind runway, terminal exterior renovations, sanitary sewer system improvements and refurbishment of the regional fire training center.

Blue Grass Airport, the Official Airport of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, is served by seven major airlines providing convenient non-stop service to 14 major hub cities and connecting service to hundreds of destinations worldwide.

# # #