News Summary
Tampa International Airport is set to begin significant renovations on the blue side of its Main Terminal starting July 7, focusing on essential pavement resurfacing. This project, lasting several weeks, will enhance safety and accessibility for travelers. Redirection measures and shuttle services are in place to assist passengers during the closure. Additionally, plans for the new Airside D terminal, set to accommodate increased passenger capacity, are underway with substantial funding backing. These enhancements reflect TPA’s commitment to maintaining high standards in airport infrastructure and passenger satisfaction.
Tampa, Florida – Tampa International Airport (TPA) is set to embark on significant renovations starting July 7, as it closes the blue side of its Main Terminal for essential pavement resurfacing work. This project, scheduled to last several weeks, is expected to conclude in early September.
The resurfacing involves removing and replacing the traffic coating on all four lanes of the blue departures drive as part of routine maintenance. During this time, passengers being dropped off at airlines located on the blue side will be redirected to the newly designated Blue Express Curbsides for their convenience.
To assist travelers during the closure, airport signage and staff will be positioned throughout the terminal, ensuring easy navigation to the second-floor ticketing level. Curbside bag check-in services will remain available at the blue express departures drive. Additionally, travelers who have already checked in and hold boarding passes can access shuttle services to their respective Airside through escalators or elevators located on the third level.
Airlines operating on the blue side of TPA include various major carriers, with a full list accessible on TPA’s official website. This resurfacing project not only aims to enhance surface safety and accessibility but is also part of a broader initiative that includes renovations to level 4 of the short-term parking garage.
The Hillsborough County Aviation Authority approved a contract valued at nearly $3.5 million with Restocon Corporation in November 2024 to carry out the project. This investment is a testament to TPA’s commitment to maintaining the airport’s infrastructure to support a growing passenger volume.
In addition to these immediate enhancements, TPA has unveiled updated renderings for the much-anticipated Airside D terminal, which is currently at the 30% design completion stage. The new Airside D terminal will feature 16 gates to accommodate both international and domestic flights, poised to increase the airport’s capacity from 25 million to 35 million passengers annually by 2037.
The total estimated cost for the Airside D project is $1.5 billion, with expectations to commence operational status by 2028, following a groundbreaking ceremony scheduled for December 18, 2025. In support of the project, the Aviation Authority Board has approved a $91 million enabling contract for initial site work, which includes necessary security fencing and utility installations.
The expansion of Airside D also has backing from a $40 million grant provided by the Federal Aviation Administration as part of the Federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, facilitating the critical upgrades at TPA.
Tampa International Airport has consistently excelled in passenger satisfaction, recently ranking second among large North American airports according to the 2024 J.D. Power North America Airport Satisfaction Study. The enhancements to TPA’s infrastructure are expected to create numerous job opportunities and bolster the local economy, effectively accommodating the rising number of passengers in the coming years.
As Tampa International Airport undertakes these significant renovations, both short-term improvements and long-term expansions highlight its commitment to providing a safe, efficient, and enjoyable travel experience for all passengers.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Verizon Expands with New Headquarters in Miami
Additional Resources
- Fox 13 News: Construction Accident at TPA
- Wikipedia: Tampa International Airport
- Fox 13 News: TPA Updates Airside D Plans
- Google Search: Tampa International Airport
- St. Pete Catalyst: Funding for Airport Growth
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tampa International Airport
- St. Pete Catalyst: Airside D Design Progress
- Google News: Tampa International Airport Updates
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
