Timeline: How PDX’s glow-up prepared us to meet the future
August 13, 2024

In 2017, we recognized that PDX was going to outgrow itself. In order to streamline the check-in process, give travelers more room to roam, and make the buildings more earthquake-resilient, we needed to make some major changes. With the goal of welcoming up to 35 million travelers a year, we set out to expand the concourses, make ground transportation more convenient, and upgrade the main terminal, which was first built in 1956. And we wanted to do all this without closing for a single day. (Thanks for being so understanding, Portland!)

Behind the $2 billion PDX Next project was a mission to make PDX, well, PDX-ier. That meant optimizing the space for sustainability, accessibility, and your wellbeing. We were fortunate to tap the talents of thousands of local workers and businesses, who helped us bring this vision to life.

Scroll down to see how we redesigned PDX, step by step

Timeline

The entire project at a glance 

2019

Farewell to all that

Dark Terminal A

Sometimes you have to say goodbye to the old in order to welcome the new. In 2019, we tore down Concourse A in order to build Concourse B. Frank talk: We haven’t missed it.

Say Goodbye to A

PNW-inspired designs revealed

Spring 2020 Expansive rendering of new main terminal with sweeping wood ceiling and indoor forest

Our team of local architects unveiled the designs for the airport’s main terminal: spacious, flexible, and green, with plenty of Pacific Northwest character.

Reimagining PDX

Concourse E gets an expansion

Fall 2020 Wide view of Concourse E exterior at twilight

The six new gates we added to Concourse E came with a few bonuses: more dining options, the new Tillamook Market, an installation from acclaimed artist Jacob Hashimoto, and stellar views of Mt. Hood.

Take an insider tour

Builders tackle some big challenges

Spring 2021 Animation of sliding massive roof components into place

In April 2021, we closed the Clocktower Plaza so our crews could bring the new main terminal to life. We also began building the wooden roof on a construction lot northwest of the airport.

See the 2021 workplan

Opening a Rental Car Center

interior of Rental Car Center Fall 2021

Opened in November 2021, the Rental Car Center helps you get in and out of PDX faster. On the floors above, we've added 2,200 more parking spaces.

Less traffic, more free time

Welcoming the new Concourse B

View of Concourse B from above Winter 2021

The bigger, daylight-filled Concourse B replaces Concourse A, adding more Oregon flavor in the form of new art, Good Coffee drinks, and Screen Door fried chicken.

Wave hello to the nice travelers, B!

More flexible transit options

people riding bikes on bike path Fall 2023

The new Transportation Plaza, located in the long-term parking garage, makes it easier to meet up with your taxi or rideshare driver — and eases congestion along Airport Way. TriMet has also completed major improvements to the MAX Red Line, and a new bike trail has made it safer and smoother to cycle to PDX.

Find your ride

Welcome to the new PDX

Light-filled main terminal with wooden roof and real trees Fall 2024

The new main terminal isn’t just greener and more spacious. It has larger security checkpoints and more places to eat and shop, as well as more art, music, and expansive views.

What to expect as the terminal opens