An exterior courtyard under construction at the new KCI terminal pays homage to the original three-terminal circular design of the old airport.
The courtyard is located on the north side of the new terminal and will feature seating, a fountain and landscaping. Located outside of airport security, it will be available to all travelers and those greeting or sending off passengers.
Other landscaping installation is also underway, including low-mow, native turf grasses that will reduce water use, lower maintenance needs and hint at the rolling prairies of the Kansas City region. Trees are being strategically planted to serve as visitor wayfinding, focusing views toward the new terminal and parking garage.
Inside, over the past month, crews installed additional public art that will be seen by millions of people each year. “Ornithology” by Willie Cole consists of 12 larger-than-life birds made entirely from alto saxophones. Suspended from the ceiling in City Market-themed retail node, this artwork is a tribute to Kansas City native son and jazz great, Charlie “Yardbird” Parker, and his 1946 tune titled “Ornithology.” The birds were constructed in the historic 18th and Vine District in Kansas City with the help of BAC Music.
Work also continues in the check-in hall with the installation of wood ceilings, terrazzo floors, ticketing counters, and wayfinding signage, in addition to painting all currently under way.
At approximately 90 percent complete, the New Terminal’s wood ceilings and terrazzo floors are on schedule for completion by the end of this year.