Photo – Dignitaries and airport officials cut the ribbon officially opening the new terminal at LBF. Photos provided by HDR.
The North Platte Regional Airport officially opened its new passenger terminal August 10th, marking a significant milestone for air transportation in western Nebraska. Federal, state, and local leaders joined airport officials for a ribbon cutting ceremony commemorating the opening of the $30 million facility.
The terminal represents the airport’s largest commercial aviation infrastructure investment in more than 70 years, strengthening the only primary commercial airport serving much of western Nebraska.
Funding for the project was made possible through a combination of federal and state investments, including an $8 million Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airport Terminals Program grant. Additional support came through Congressionally Directed Spending, FAA entitlement funding, and the State of Nebraska.
“This terminal reflects what is possible when communities invest in their future,” said Airport Manager Justin Gosnell. “It improves the travel experience, expands opportunities for regional businesses, and strengthens connectivity for residents across western Nebraska.”
The facility incorporates innovative sustainability features and is expected to achieve LEED Gold certification. Features include mass timber construction, geothermal heating and cooling, energy generating skylight glass, stormwater reuse systems and electric vehicle charging stations.
“Projects like this succeed because of strong partnerships and a shared commitment to creating something that will serve the community for decades to come,” said HDR Project Manager Ryan Hanson. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to support the North Platte Airport Authority throughout this journey and congratulate them on delivering a terminal that enhances the travel experience.”
The airport’s previous terminal, constructed in 1952, was built for a different era of aviation. “As passenger expectations and security requirements evolved over the decades, the aging facility became increasingly constrained, lacking space for modern baggage screening systems, passenger amenities, and comfortable waiting areas,” said Hanson.
“To address these limitations, the new terminal features jet bridge boarding, expanded concessions, improved passenger flow, enhanced security accommodations, and spacious waiting areas filled with natural light,” said Hanson. “Its design reflects the expectations of today’s travelers while creating an inviting gateway to the community.”
HDR has assisted the airport authority since the project’s beginnings, including co-authoring the authority’s FY2024 Airport Terminals Program application and advocating for the project with local, state and federal leaders. In total, the airport authority secured $21.8 million in federal funds for the new terminal, which is several times higher than the airport’s annual budget.
HDR also helped the airport authority modify its design, project delivery strategy and provided engineering and architecture support throughout construction.
“This project is a great example of how our engineering and architecture experts can work together to deliver a beautiful and modern structure for our airport clients,” HDR Aviation Director Bill Peduzzi said. “We’re proud to have worked alongside the North Platte Airport Authority to deliver a transformative project for western Nebraska.”
Travelers began using the terminal August 11th, when the facility welcomed its first arrival. The first departing flight was scheduled for the morning of August 12th.
