The O'Hare World Gateway Program Approved by the Federal Aviation Administration
Final Environmental Assessment receives a
Finding of No Significant Impact
June 21, 2002-The Chicago Department of Aviation today received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on the O'Hare World Gateway Program and other capital improvement projects. Today's decision, a Finding of No Significant Impact, allows the Department to move forward with implementation of the Program.
"We are pleased with the FAA's decision. Throughout the environmental review process, we worked hard to solicit input and comments from the public, state and federal agencies," said Aviation Commissioner Thomas R. Walker. "These improvements address O'Hare's existing need for additional gates and more efficient terminals."
The World Gateway Program calls for the development of two new passenger terminals, and the redevelopment of O'Hare's existing terminals. These new terminals will be among the first to be constructed entirely under new FAA Security Guidelines and allow the airport to incorporate the most current security information and technology in the construction of the new terminals.
The first projects of the Program will be the construction of new Terminal 6 and an extension to Concourse K. These two projects will provide the airport with approximately 23 new gates.
The Program will allow the airport to more efficiently serve its airlines and passengers, by accommodating the larger, quieter Stage 3 aircraft; reduce delays experienced on the ground as planes wait for compatible gates; and provide seamless connections for international and domestic passengers.
Other projects associated with the Gateway Program include public parking improvements, extension of the ATS people mover system and roadway improvements in and around the airport.
The World Gateway Program is expected to generate 8,000 construction jobs, plus an estimated 800-1200 permanent jobs to operate the additional facilities and systems. No local or state taxpayer dollars will be used to fund the $3.5 billion World Gateway Program. Funding will come from a combination of general airport revenue bonds, passenger facility charge and federal Airport Improvement funds.
