Willmeng Construction Inc., a Phoenix-based commercial general contractor and Fann Contracting, a Prescott-based heavy civil construction company, recently began construction on a new $13.9 million, 18,000 SF passenger terminal at Prescott Regional Airport – Ernest A. Love Field, which will replace the current 1940s terminal. Upon completion, the replacement passenger terminal will continue serving the current commercial air service with flights from Prescott to Denver and Los Angeles. Designed by DWL Architects, Phoenix, construction is expected to be completed in the spring of 2021 and will allow for easy expansion as air service continues to grow.
Funding for this project would not have been possible without support from the FAA and state partnerships. Prescott Regional Airport has seen a dramatic increase in passengers utilizing commercial air service when United Express, operated by SkyWest Airlines began service in August of 2018. Since then, over 73,000 passengers have used the service.
Arizona State Governor, Doug Ducey, recently visited the site and remarked on how the development occurring throughout Yavapai County and the addition of the new passenger terminal are great representations of the development that’s possible throughout the entire state of Arizona.
“The airport is a major economic driver for this entire region and as we see the economy continue to grow, there is great opportunity for more economic development around the airport,” said Greg Mengarelli, Mayor, City of Prescott. “This new terminal is only the beginning as we look at future expansion.”
With the addition of the new passenger terminal, commercial service apron, baggage handling system, vehicle parking and roadway, residents of Prescott, Prescott Valley, Dewey-Humboldt, Chino Valley, Camp Verde, Cottonwood, Clarkdale, Jerome, Chino Valley, and Sedona will be able to enjoy an enhanced travel experience.
“We’re very thankful for Dr. Sobotta’s leadership, the support of Mayor Mengarelli and the council, and the whole team surrounding this project,” commented James Murphy, President and CEO of Willmeng Construction, a general contracting firm that has completed several aviation projects recently. “DWL Architects did a great job integrating glass into a modern, yet rustic façade. We’re very excited to go vertical with construction in the months ahead.”
“It takes local support to make things happen. We ask for these three simple things, that the local community respects the asset, acts as a good steward, and when we provide federal money, spend it.” Mark McClardy, the FAA’s Director of the Western Pacific Region remarked, “This was a very competitive process. We had about 167 applications from different airports, but only four grants were issued. We are all in for Prescott.”
Over 200 invited guests gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking in January, including local, state, and federal officials, many of whom had the opportunity to publicly share impactful stories and their excitement regarding the project.
“We couldn’t have done it without the hard work, the vision, and the support of so many.” Dr. Robin Sobotta, Airport Director, City of Prescott, explained, “An economic generator is happening in our community. Thank you to our engineering, design, and construction partners who turn dreams into reality, you’ve done it for us! I’m glad we’re building our first terminal together.”
Construction on this project will not interfere with flights or airport activity, making the execution of this project ideal for all parties. The partnership between Willmeng Construction and Fann Contracting pairs local connections with airport construction expertise.
