SANTA ANA, Calif. – Changes have begun to take shape at John Wayne Airport (JWA). One year into the Airport’s Improvement Program, a new aircraft overnight parking area has been constructed on the airfield; restrooms are being refurbished and updated in Terminals A and B and passengers can now power up their cell phones, laptop and other electronic devices while waiting for their flight. These and many other exciting changes are planned for the coming months and years.

“We are pleased to be able to offer new and improved services in the Terminal providing our passengers with more convenience and a positive travel experience,” said Alan L. Murphy, Airport Director.

Pictured above is an architectural rendering of a completed Temporary Parking Lot C, scheduled to open August 1, 2008. The center of the rendering represents the construction area where existing Parking Structure B1 is removed and the area is being prepared for construction of Terminal C.

Gates 2 – 14, in Terminals A and B of the Riley Terminal now have custom-designed power receptacles located between the backs of the passenger seating rows. The outlets are surge protected, ensuring safe usage. After a complete remodel, restrooms in Terminal B (located across from Gate 4) have re-opened. Restrooms in Terminal A (across from Gate 11) are under renovation and expected to reopen by summer.

The new restrooms were re-designed to be more functional and up-to-date, after 17 years of use by millions of passengers. The new design incorporates high quality amenities with environmentally responsible operation, and includes touch free faucets and soap dispensers, along with low-flush toilets and urinals. The new ‘Zurn’ urinals utilize only one-eighth of a gallon of water – well under the federal standard of 1 gallon maximum per flush. New Family Restrooms are also now available in both locations for added passenger convenience.

The Airport Improvement Program is a result of amendments made to the “Settlement Agreement” – the regulatory framework that governs operations at JWA – and includes construction of a new multi-level terminal building with six commercial passenger gates, six new security checkpoints, 2,000+ new parking spaces and new commuter facilities. JWA anticipates construction taking approximately five years with the new Terminal expected to open in 2011. A rendering of the completed facilities is below.

The Airport Improvement Program will allow the Airport to continue providing convenient, efficient and secure air service with the high level of customer comfort and service that JWA users have come to expect.

For more information about the Airport Improvement Program, email improvements@ocair.com.