Sacramento International Airport (SMF) has broken ground for its new Pedestrian Walkway, a key project in the SMForward program. The Pedestrian Walkway will connect Terminal B to Concourse B via a skybridge with moving sidewalks, escalators and elevators along a panoramic corridor. The walkway project is vital to supporting passenger growth well into the future.
The $140 million walkway will enhance passenger convenience and connectivity, offering travelers the ability to walk or ride the existing Automated People Mover. The project will feature three major pieces of art that represent a $2.5 million investment in public art.
“This is the first project of our $1.3 billion SMForward program and the culmination of years of planning and creativity,” said Cindy Nichol, Director of Sacramento County Department of Airports. “By transforming how people experience travel, we’re enhancing our community’s connection to the region and the world, boosting our economy and improving our quality of life.”
The project is funded by $33 million in grant funds through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL, as well as a low-interest federal loan through the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) and airport revenue bonds. Zero local tax dollars will be used to fund this important project.
The Airport has been breaking passenger records month after month, ending fiscal year 2024 with 13.2 million passengers served.
“With passenger numbers on track to break records again this year, this project is essential to meeting the demands of today and tomorrow,” said District 2 Supervisor and Board Chair, Patrick Kennedy. “By expanding our Airport’s capacity and enhancing the passenger journey, Sacramento County’s Department of Airports is ensuring our region remains a top choice for travelers and businesses alike.”
“This walkway, with two sky bridges and a hub, is built with the future in mind,” said District 1 Supervisor, Phil Serna. “They will provide SMF’s passengers a flexible portal that can connect to a future concourse to meet our growing region’s need for air travel for decades to come.”
Following a competitive selection process, Balfour Beatty was chosen to serve as the project’s Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR), a first for a major project in Sacramento County.
The (CMAR) delivery method is beneficial because it allows for early collaboration between the Department, the project designer and the construction manager, leading to better project design and cost control. The project will be delivered through multiple progressive guaranteed maximum price (PGMP) which reduce financial risk for the Department. CMAR delivery method enhances project quality and efficiency through integrated project design and delivery and proactive risk management.
The Pedestrian Walkway is just the first step in a $1.3 billion plan to leverage transformative partnerships, lead the way in creative financing solutions and deliver the future of SMF. Throughout the program’s projected duration, 800 jobs will be created in the first four years alone.
