Key Takeaways
• Atrium Infill Project adds 12,000 square feet to Barbara Jordan Terminal, finishing in 2026.
• At least $25 million in federal grants fund part of estimated $50–$150 million project cost.
• Travelers gain indoor waiting, improved security, and comfort, with no impact on TSA checks or flight schedules.
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is taking a big step to make travel easier for everyone. In May 2025, the airport started building a new 12,000-square-foot area called the Atrium Infill Project. This project is a part of the bigger “Journey With AUS” plan that aims to make the airport better for both travelers and the community. The main goal here is simple: to handle the huge number of people flying in and out of Austin, making travel smoother, safer, and more comfortable.
Let’s break down what this project involves, why it’s so important, how it fits into the larger plans for the airport, and what it means for you and the community.
What the Atrium Infill Project Means for Travelers
The new Atrium Infill will be built in the Barbara Jordan Terminal, one of the main areas where people arrive and depart from the airport. Imagine a space above the baggage claim that’s open to the air—this project will cover that space and turn it into a dedicated area for people to line up for security checks and airline check-in.
Why is this important? Recently, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport has seen much more traffic than it was ever designed for. On busy days, the lines for TSA security checks have even gone out the doors, leaving travelers waiting outside. With this new 12,000-square-foot expansion, all security lines will stay inside. You’ll have more space to wait comfortably no matter how busy it gets.
This extra room will make going through airport security and checking in for flights a lot less stressful. It keeps people out of the Texas heat or cold, out of the rain, and inside where it’s more comfortable. Plus, the space will help things move faster, since there’s more area for people to spread out.
Features That Make a Difference
Here are some upgrades and features you’ll find as part of the Atrium Infill Project in the Barbara Jordan Terminal:
- TSA and Check-In Queues: There will be much longer and more comfortable lines for security. Instead of wrapping around outside the building, lines will stay indoors, helping the airport manage crowded times better.
- Mechanical and Electrical Upgrades: New systems for heating, cooling, lighting, and other basic needs will be more up-to-date, meaning the terminal will be more comfortable and safe.
- Better Lighting: Improved lights will make the baggage claim area brighter. You’ll be able to spot your bags more easily and feel safer while waiting.
- Modern Paging System: Clearer airport announcements will help everyone stay up to date, whether you’re waiting for a flight or picking someone up.
- Upgraded Sprinkler System: For your safety, a new sprinkler system will protect the areas created in the new expansion.
The airport is not just stopping at making things more comfortable—they’re making sure to do it sustainably. The project is designed to earn a 3-star rating under the Austin Energy Green Building program. This means the airport will use less energy and water, making it better for the environment. Plus, local artists Josef Kristofoletti and Matthew Mazzotta will create a new public artwork for the space, bringing color and creativity into the heart of the airport.
Construction Timeline and Traveler Impact
Work on the Atrium Infill Project started in May 2025. If everything stays on schedule, the new space in the Barbara Jordan Terminal should be ready in 2026.
While the project is being built, you’ll notice construction walls in certain parts of the departures area. There might be some noise here and there, but the airport has promised that TSA security operations and your flight schedules will not be affected by the construction.
This means you can keep traveling as usual. If you’re flying from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport during the construction, you may see signs and workers, but all the important pieces—security, check-in, and your gates—will work just like before.
How Much Does It Cost, and Who Pays?
The money side of the Atrium Infill Project tells an important story about investing in both the airport and the people of Austin. Some sources say the project will cost about $50 million, with around half of that—$25 million—coming straight from a grant funded by the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This is a big national program set up to rebuild airports and other public spaces across the United States 🇺🇸.
Other estimates have mentioned a possible total cost as high as $150 million. This difference may happen because some costs, like upgrades to other systems or the price of inflation, are still changing or include more than just the infill construction.
The main company responsible for the work is Whiting-Turner, while Corgan Architects prepared the design. Both have done many airport projects before, helping make sure everything will be finished safely and on time.
The Bigger Picture: Part of the “Journey With AUS” Expansion
While the Atrium Infill Project is a huge upgrade by itself, it’s just one piece of a much larger set of changes coming to the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. With more people than ever traveling in and out of Austin, the airport is working to handle up to twice as many passengers as it was built for.
Here’s what you can expect as part of the full “Journey With AUS” expansion plan:
- A Massive New Arrivals and Departures Hall: By around 2030, the airport hopes to finish a completely new building for people arriving and leaving, making things even smoother for travelers. The Atrium Infill Project’s indoor lines are only a temporary solution until then.
- A Second Concourse with at Least 20 Gates: More gates mean more flights, shorter waits, and more travel options. This is especially important as Austin grows and gets even more popular.
- Parking and Airfield Expansion: There will be new places to park your car and improvements for planes coming in and out. This will make things run more smoothly for both travelers and pilots.
- Upgraded Technology and Paths for Baggage: Making sure your bags get to you faster and using newer technology to keep everything secure.
All of these projects are being finished step by step, with the airport planning to have most of the big changes done before the end of this decade.
How the Community and Economy Benefit
The benefits of expanding Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and its Barbara Jordan Terminal go far beyond just travelers. The project brings positive changes for the local community and economy, too.
- Jobs: The work creates thousands of jobs in the Austin area, both for building the airport and for running it once it’s done.
- Support for Local Businesses: Out of all the money being spent on new airport building, over $400 million is reserved for small, minority-owned, and women-owned businesses. This gives many local companies a chance to be part of something big, grow their skills, and provide for their families.
- Public Art and Environment: Including a new art installation by Austin-based artists and meeting strong green building standards means the airport stays connected to the city’s culture and its environmental goals.
Why This Matters for Travelers, Immigrants, and International Visitors
For immigrants and international visitors, the Atrium Infill Project and the wider “Journey With AUS” plan mean a better welcome every time they come through Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.
If you’re coming to the United States 🇺🇸 from another country, you may have experienced long lines, crowded waiting areas, and unclear instructions. This expansion is designed to fix these problems—giving you more room, better signs, and a smoother journey from the moment you arrive.
For families visiting relatives, students coming to study, and adults starting new jobs, these changes make travel less stressful. You can expect faster movement through security, more comfort while you wait, and help through clearer announcements and better lighting. This focus on simple, smart improvements makes Austin’s airport a more welcoming place for everyone.
Managing Growth Without Disruptions
One of the most important promises made during the construction of the Atrium Infill Project is that the airport will not reduce the number of people who can go through TSA or change the schedule of flights. This means even during the busiest travel months or holidays, the airport will keep working as usual.
You might be a little inconvenienced by some noise or see construction workers while traveling, but your overall experience should keep improving as each part of the project finishes.
Controversies and Budget Questions
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the budget numbers for the Atrium Infill Project and the larger airport upgrades are not always the same in every report. Some sources put the project at about $50 million, while others say it could cost as much as $150 million. This difference may be because the airport is still deciding on prices for certain upgrades, or the numbers may include more than just the basic construction—possibly tech updates, future expansion costs, or rising prices for materials.
While some people may worry about the total costs, the funding from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act means the burden is lighter for the city itself. Airport leaders promise that these investments will pay off by making the airport more efficient and able to handle the growing number of travelers for many years to come.
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport’s Place in a Fast-Growing City
Austin is one of America’s fastest-growing cities. As more people move in, visit, or travel for business, the need for a bigger, better airport grows too. Keeping up with the city’s growth is not an easy job, but careful planning and projects like the Atrium Infill and larger “Journey With AUS” program are meant to solve today’s problems while preparing for tomorrow.
For more on the airport’s vision and future projects, you can visit the official Austin-Bergstrom International Airport expansion page, where they share regular updates about construction, new features, and how they’re working to make travel better for everyone.
Key Takeaways and What’s Next
- The 12,000-square-foot Atrium Infill Project adds more processing space within the Barbara Jordan Terminal of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.
- Travelers will no longer have to wait outside in TSA lines—even during the busiest times.
- Construction started in May 2025, with completion expected in 2026. TSA checks and flights will not be interrupted.
- The project includes better safety, comfort, and environmental standards, with special attention to local art and culture.
- This is just one part of multiple upgrades set to roll out through the end of the decade, including more gates, a new arrivals and departures hall, and better parking.
- Over $400 million is set aside to help small and local businesses be part of the construction effort.
- The upgrades help Austin keep up with the demands of a changing city and the world.
If you are planning to travel, move, or visit relatives through Austin, expect things to keep improving at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. Watch for easier check-ins, more comfort, and new features that reflect the spirit of the city itself. The Atrium Infill Project is a sign that Austin is looking toward the future—making sure every journey starts and ends on a brighter note.
Learn Today
Atrium Infill Project → A 12,000-square-foot expansion to create more indoor space for airport security and check-in at Austin’s main terminal.
TSA Security Checks → Screening processes managed by the Transportation Security Administration to ensure travelers’ safety before boarding flights.
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act → A federal law providing funds for public projects like airport upgrades, transportation, and national infrastructure renewal.
Barbara Jordan Terminal → The main terminal at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport where most passenger arrivals and departures occur.
Austin Energy Green Building → A local program rating construction projects based on sustainability, energy efficiency, and environmental impact standards.
This Article in a Nutshell
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport’s Atrium Infill Project adds 12,000 square feet for TSA and check-in, ending outdoor lines and boosting comfort. Backed by federal funds, it upgrades safety, technology, and art. Travelers avoid weather, while local businesses and jobs benefit. Completion is set for 2026, with further expansions planned.
— By VisaVerge.com
