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The Columbus Regional Airport Authority Board of Directors will be presented with a three-year, $80 million Port Columbus terminal modernization plan at its Oct. 23 meeting, according to a statement from the airport.

The multi-faceted program incorporates a major facelift for the ticket lobby, baggage claim and concourses A, B and C, as well as mechanical, technological and security upgrades. Funding for this initiative, which is designed to ensure the terminal's functionality for at least another 20 years, will be derived from PFCs, and capital reserve and operating funds.

Elaine Roberts, A.A.E., president and CEO of the airport authority, explained that, "Since 2001, more than $627 million has been invested in critical airport improvements, including roadway, runway and baggage handling upgrades, among many others. Now is the time for the airport authority to make the investment in the Port Columbus terminal." Roberts noted that, "The terminal modernization program, which was conceived following months of intense study and research, builds upon the functional characteristics of an existing 55-year-old structure that will look and operate like new and have the capacity to serve our airline partners and central Ohio travelers with even greater efficiency."

The entire modernization program will extend through 2015 with no significant impact to airport operations, according to the announcement.