Pitkin County commissioners unanimously approved a schematic design concept for the Aspen/Pitkin County Airport terminal modernization Wednesday, advancing the most significant airport overhaul in the facility’s history toward a 2027 construction start.
The board voted 5-0 to accept the schematic design as the basis for design development, incorporating seven recommendations from the Airport Advisory Board. Those recommendations — covering concerns including gate capacity, hold room sizing, baggage handling conditions, and employee parking — must be addressed before design development concludes. The terminal’s phase one footprint currently stands at approximately 95,000 square feet, expanding to roughly 130,000 square feet in phase two.
Carter Straub, project manager for the Terminal Landside Program, told commissioners the phased approach keeps the project on schedule while maintaining flexibility. Phase one would provide seven gates and 10 total aircraft positions. Phase two — which requires demolishing the existing terminal — could add approximately 11,000 additional square feet of passenger hold room and potentially a parking structure.
Commissioner Francie Jacober pressed the team to confirm the board was not locking into 90,000 square feet as a ceiling. Commissioners Greg Poschman and Patti Clapper raised ongoing public concerns about jet bridge costs, parking reductions, and crowded hold rooms. Interim Deputy Airport Director David Schneider and G.R. Fielding of Jacobsen|Daniels confirmed that jet bridge versus ground-load decisions remain open through design development. One resident urged commissioners to restore a third-floor restaurant and observation level, arguing the voter-approved enterprise fund of $940 million should support the full vision.
In other action, the board approved a resolution supporting a $240,000 grant application through the Colorado Department of Local Affairs Peace Officer Behavioral Health Support program for mental health services in law enforcement. The application would return to the board for final approval if awarded.
Commissioners also approved a special events liquor permit for the Friends of the Aspen Animal Shelter’s Dog Days Afternoon community carnival, set for July 19 at the Aspen Animal Shelter. A $175,500 FAA grant agreement for Vehicle Movement Area Transponders at Sardy Field received unanimous approval, along with a second-quarter budget supplemental appropriation and a broadband grant application to the Colorado Broadband Office.
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