$1.1B Southwest Florida Airport Expansion Breaks Ground

Suffolk broke ground on Southwest Florida International Airport’s $1.1 billion Terminal E project on March 12, according to a news release from the Boston-based contractor. It is the most expensive municipal construction project in Lee County history, Wink News reported.

The project is the second phase of a major expansion underway at RSW that aims to prepare it for expected growth in passenger traffic over the next decade. RSW experienced a record-setting year in 2024, serving more than 11 million passengers, according to the release. The second project phase will allow it to accommodate 10,000 to 15,000 more passengers each day.

Lee County Port Authority is heading the effort, which will create a new concourse with 14 initial gates and capacity to support 19 gates in the future, as well as a concessions area, according to the project webpage. It will also expand the existing main terminal on all three levels to include a new ticketing lobby and baggage claim area with a new baggage handling system.

The project also entails:

The project includes major rework of taxiways surrounding the new concourse, according to Suffolk, and new roadways and pedestrian bridges will enhance the passenger experience for arrivals and departures.

Financing for the overhaul came from the Lee County Port Authority as well as Florida DOT and Federal Aviation Administration grants, according to the airport. Montreal-based SNC-Lavalin, now known as AtkinsRéalis, is building the phase 1 $331 million terminal expansion, which has encountered delays due to design-related issues and challenges with the construction manager and firm, according to Wink News.

As part of phase 2, crews are currently installing piles as well as locating and removing existing utilities, according to a March progress report. Underground mechanical, electrical and plumbing work in the terminal area and the new concourse is also underway.

Pete Tuffo, president of Florida Gulf Coast and National Gaming for Suffolk, touted the firm’s collaborative approach to planning and preconstruction.

“Suffolk’s ability to successfully navigate complex projects and timelines without causing disruption to an airport’s ongoing operations is a testament to our meticulous planning and execution skills,” Tuffo said. “Our unique approach helps to ensure airports remain fully functional and efficient throughout the entire construction process.”

Construction is scheduled to be complete in 2027, according to the airport.