NEW CONCOURSE ADDITION OPENS AT BLUE GRASS AIRPORT

April 18, 2007 – This morning marks an important milestone in Blue Grass Airport history as Airport Executive Director Michael Gobb and the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Airport Board opened the airport’s Concourse B addition. This $16.9 million project, which construction began in July 2005, includes six new passenger boarding gates, ample passenger seating, additional restroom facilities and space for a new retail outlet to open in Fall 2007.

“Blue Grass Airport previously had 9 boarding gates and 14 aircraft trying to use those gates each morning. This concourse addition will allow airlines to operated more efficiently today and allow us to accommodate new growth in the future,” said Michael Gobb, executive director for Blue Grass Airport. “The new gates and loading bridges will add much needed seating and services for our passengers—especially during peak travel hours.”

Elements of central Kentucky have been incorporated into the concourse design so visitors arriving at the airport will immediately enjoy the distinct beauty of the region. The exterior of the concourse evokes the texture, strength and earthy character of Kentucky limestone. Inside, the terrazzo tile is visually arranged to reflect Lexington’s rolling hills and plank fences. Solid and translucent canopies hang from the ceiling to suggest clouds. And, the carpet was designed especially for the airport and is called “Kentucky Bluegrass.”

“These subtle touches make the airport’s design unique and reflects the beauty of the Bluegrass,” added Gobb. “As we enhance the terminal, we are incorporating regional elements into the architectural design so the airport has a lasting impression on visitors.”

In addition to these design details, passengers will notice other architecturally pleasing elements such as floor to ceiling windows. At the end of the concourse, families can watch departing and arriving aircraft in a special “look-out” alcove. Glass doors provide an attractive entrance to loading bridges and wood tiles are interspersed among the ceiling tiles to provide visual interest.

The airport will now begin renovations for the existing portion of Concourse B and the main corridor that connects its two upstairs concourses. The interior furnishings and décor will be upgraded to match the appearance of the new addition and the newly renovated Concourse C.