Construction manager named for QC airport renovation project

    A $20 million renovation project at the Quad Cities International Airport (QCIA) now has a construction manager.

    Mortenson, based in Minneapolis, has been named the construction manager at risk (CMAR) to assist in the airport’s goal to modernize its Moline terminal. The Rock Island County Metropolitan Airport Authority recently voted unanimously to approve Mortenson for the renovation job.

    That renovation plan – called Project GATEWAY – will include many new features including changes to the ticket area, relocating baggage screening machines out of sight, renovating restrooms, creating indoor and outdoor garden space, and installing a new canopy and water feature. It’s all an effort to create a “more modern travel experience,” according to the QCIA’s website.

    “We are preparing for extensive construction through 2024 where we’ll be realigning the old framework with new technology to be more efficient and future-proof the airport. Project GATEWAY will create jobs for the next several years and we have committed to using local contractors whenever possible,” the website adds.

    Mortenson is expected to work with airport officials and the project’s design team, Minneapolis-based Alliiance, on the project. Renovation construction work could begin this summer or early fall.

    Mortenson partners with Davenport-based Bush Construction and Chicago-based R.M. Chin & Associates to round out the team.

    “The Quad Cities was my home for 20 years and where we raised our family,” Randy Clarahan, Mortenson project manager, said in a news release. “This project is personal to me, and I know the impact this will have on continued viability to the Quad Cities International Airport as well as enhancing the experience for each and every traveler.”

    The airport first announced Project GATEWAY nine months ago. 

    “We’ve continued planning behind the scenes and part of that work was finding the right construction partner to work with our selected design team, Alliiance,” Benjamin Leischner, the airport’s executive director, said in the release. “The CMAR selection committee, along with our commissioners, are confident that Mortensen is exactly the right partner and will build a truly impressive facility for our region.”

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