Travelers and local residents face major changes at Reno-Tahoe International Airport as of August 4, 2025, with the launch of the airport’s largest-ever infrastructure upgrades. These projects bring significant road closures, new construction, and a multi-year investment plan called MoreRNO, all aimed at expanding capacity and modernizing the airport.
Widespread Road Closures and Construction Impacts
Starting in early August 2025, Reno-Tahoe International Airport began a new phase of construction that includes major road closures and detours around the airport. These closures are necessary to allow for the safe building of new facilities and to protect both workers and travelers. The airport has posted clear signs and issued public advisories to help drivers find their way. Travelers are strongly encouraged to allow extra time for drop-off, pick-up, and parking, as traffic patterns have changed and delays are likely.
According to airport officials, “We know these changes can be frustrating, but they are needed to make the airport better for everyone in the future.” The Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority (RTAA), led by President/CEO Daren Griffin and Board Chair Jennifer Cunningham, is overseeing the MoreRNO program and working to keep the public informed.
Major Projects Underway and Recent Milestones
One of the biggest projects is the New Gen A & B Concourses. On July 23, 2025, McCarthy Building Companies was chosen to lead this $650 million project. The plan will double the airport’s gate capacity and replace the old B and C concourses with larger, brighter, and more efficient spaces. This project is supported by a 10-year agreement with airlines, showing strong industry support for the airport’s future. Groundbreaking is set for the first quarter of 2026, and construction will be managed to limit disruptions to daily airport operations.
In June 2025, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen announced that the airport secured over $7.6 million in federal funding through the Airport Infrastructure Grant program, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This money will add 8,850 square yards of ramp space, making it easier to handle more planes overnight and improving overall airfield efficiency. Previous grants in 2024 and 2023 have also helped fund terminal expansion and other upgrades.
Several projects have already been completed. The Ticketing Hall Expansion, finished in 2024 at a cost of $32 million, increased airline queuing space by 113%, added 10,000 square feet, improved passenger wayfinding, and introduced new travel technology. The Loop Road Improvements, completed in September 2024 for $14.2 million, brought 1,800 feet of new asphalt, better accessibility for people with disabilities, and improved safety for drop-off and pick-up. The Ground Transportation Center, which began construction in 2024, is a $299 million project to improve access for rental cars, rideshares, taxis, and public transportation, while reclaiming over 600 parking spaces near the terminal.
Ongoing and Upcoming Projects
Construction is also underway on a $70 million police station and new RTAA headquarters. These new buildings will free up terminal space for shops and other businesses, creating more revenue for the airport. The $570 million concourse project will add more gates, expand food and shopping options, upgrade technology, and improve amenities for travelers. A new Centralized Utility Plant will provide sustainable power to the expanded facilities.
Who Is Affected and How
- Travelers: Should expect ongoing construction impacts, including road closures, detours, and changes to parking and ground transportation access. The airport recommends arriving at least 30–60 minutes earlier than usual and checking the official construction updates page for the latest information.
- Airlines and Tenants: Will benefit from more gates, better efficiency, and new revenue opportunities as terminal space is modernized and expanded.
- Local Economy: The upgrades are expected to support regional growth, boost tourism, and create jobs in both construction and airport operations.
Practical Steps for Travelers
To help travelers manage the changes, the airport suggests the following steps:
Senator Jacky Rosen announces $7.6 million federal funding
McCarthy Building Companies chosen for $650 million project
New phase of construction begins with road closures
Completion of Loop Road Improvements for $14.2 million
Completion of Ticketing Hall Expansion for $32 million
- Check Construction Updates: Visit the official construction updates page for current advisories and detour maps.
- Allow Extra Time: Plan to arrive at least 30–60 minutes earlier than usual due to road closures and construction.
- Follow Signage: Pay attention to posted detours and directions from airport staff for drop-off, pick-up, and parking.
- Monitor Airline Communications: Airlines may provide extra guidance about check-in and boarding during construction.
Background and Funding
The MoreRNO program is a multi-year, roughly $1 billion investment to modernize Reno-Tahoe International Airport. This effort responds to rapid growth in the region and more people flying in and out of the airport. The airport is self-sufficient, relying on money from its own operations, federal grants, and bonds. It does not receive dedicated state or local tax funding.
Looking Ahead
Groundbreaking for the New Gen A & B Concourses is scheduled for early 2026, with construction planned in phases to reduce disruption for travelers. Other projects, like the Ground Transportation Center and new police headquarters, are expected to finish over the next two to three years. The airport will keep seeking federal, state, and private funding to support ongoing and future needs.
Expert and Stakeholder Views
| Project Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| New Gen A & B Concourses | $650 million |
| Ground Transportation Center | $299 million |
| Ticketing Hall Expansion | $32 million |
| Loop Road Improvements | $14.2 million |
| Police Station and RTAA Headquarters | $70 million |
RTAA leaders stress that these upgrades are essential for meeting future travel demand and supporting the region’s economy. Federal officials point out that infrastructure investment helps boost tourism and airport efficiency. Construction and aviation experts see the New Gen A & B Concourses as a once-in-a-generation investment in the region’s connectivity and passenger experience.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, these infrastructure upgrades at Reno-Tahoe International Airport are expected to bring long-term benefits, even though they cause short-term inconvenience. The improvements will make the airport safer, more efficient, and better able to serve the growing number of travelers.
Where to Find More Information
For the latest construction updates, detour maps, and project details, visit the official MoreRNO construction page. For general airport information, go to www.renoairport.com. Media and public inquiries can be directed to 844-RNO-INFO (844-766-4636).
Final Takeaways
While the current road closures and construction at Reno-Tahoe International Airport may cause delays and require extra planning, these changes are part of a larger effort to create a safer, more modern, and more efficient airport. Travelers, airlines, and the local community will all benefit from these upgrades in the years to come. By staying informed and allowing extra time, everyone can help make this transition as smooth as possible.
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