The renovation scheme has been designed to give the airport a modern ambiance along with improving passenger convenience. The interior has been refurbished to replicate a hotel lobby, and the infrastructure which was in dire need of improvement has also received extensive facelift.
The improvements include new walkways, new elevators, doors, and chillers to replace an outdated air-conditioning system. Other additions include new ticket counters, terrazzo inserts in the floors, stained-glass art walls, and green carpeting.
As part of the renovation, the terminal at St. Petersburg-Clearwater Airport has received a 46 feet long, six feet high blown glass wall, created by Kentucky-based glass artist Guy Kemper. The project, titled Sunshine Beach, is designed to reflect the renovated airport’s new tropical theme. The new blown glass wall will function as the terminal’s signature entrance and will also separate passenger’s entry and a secured boarding area. The glass wall will thus blend functional aspects with enhanced aesthetics of the terminal. The installation project is financed primarily through the Pinellas County’s public art and design program.
The money for the improvements is secured from non-local government sources, except for $250,000 in airport money spent on planning.
