Exciting Plans Brew for a New Hotel at Columbia Metropolitan Airport!
Columbia is buzzing with excitement as news breaks about a potential new hotel on the horizon, right on the Columbia Metropolitan Airport’s campus! This ambitious project aims to build a cozy getaway at the prime corner of Airport Boulevard and Aviation Way, making it oh-so-easy for travelers to stroll right into the terminal. With this happening, it’s hard not to feel the thrill of what’s to come!
Aiming for Growth and Expansion
Airport officials are focused on growth and expansion as they plan out the future improvements. “We are really focused on growth and expansion, and we’re also focused on how we do that within the confines that we currently have, but also to where we see opportunities,” says Kim Crafton, Vice President of Marketing and Air Service Development. She knows just how to capture the essence of this plan, highlighting the keen interest in improving passenger experience and stopping the trend of locals flying to other airports, like the bustling hub in Charlotte.
Before the pandemic hit us hard, the Columbia airport was on a roll, serving a whopping 1.3 million passengers in 2019! And it looks like they’re ready to rebound, projecting 1.4 million passengers for this year alone. With expectations to soar beyond 2 million by 2044, it’s clear the airport is gearing up for traffic—both in the air and on the ground!
Hotel to Enhance Passenger Experience
The planned hotel is designed to cater primarily to passengers flying early in the morning or arriving late at night. With four floors and 150 rooms, it offers more than just comfort; it might also include a stunning rooftop bar and restaurant that overlooks the runway—perfect for all, not just those with a boarding pass! Imagine this: “Travelers can arrive the night before, enjoy a comfortable stay, and conveniently walk directly from the hotel into the terminal in the morning,” remarks Mike Gula, the airport president. Doesn’t that sound delightful?
Keeping Up with the Competition
You’re not alone if you think this all sounds pretty familiar! Across North America, airports are waking up to the perks of hotel connectivity, much like Columbia’s plans. A recent article pointed out that airports are continuously competing to enhance their passengers’ experiences. The boom in popularity of airport-connected hotels could become a game-changer, creating a “halo effect” that draws more airlines and flyers to them.
Security Upgrades and Modernization
But wait, there’s more! Columbia airport isn’t stopping at just a hotel. They’re expanding their security checkpoints from two to four lanes, aiming to provide an even smoother experience for the increasing number of flyers expected. This work is part of a bigger plan—a much-awaited master plan that’ll keep the airport modernized over the next ten to twenty years. Plus, let’s talk about some feedback! About 2,000 local travelers shared their thoughts on how to improve the airport. It’s this kind of input that’s leading to enhancements like more charging stations and conference space—a win-win!
Refreshing the Surrounding Community
While all these exciting changes happen at the airport, neighboring towns, Cayce and Springdale, are not sitting idly by. They are teaming up to beautify the stretch along Airport Boulevard, planning to add trees, plants, and new irrigation. This isn’t just about looks; it’s about making a statement! As Cayce Mayor Elise Partin put it, “So a flower is not just a flower. It’s actually sending a message that says, ‘Come do business here, come visit here, come have fun here.’”
A Bright Future Ahead
So what’s next? Crafton believes the hotel can complement these beautification efforts, attracting locals and travelers alike to a vibrant new venue right at the airport. “I could definitely see it being a very positive thing for the progression and push toward improving that corridor,” she adds, radiating confidence in this holistic approach to community development.
With ambitious plans in the works, it seems that Columbia Metropolitan Airport is not just looking to grow but to thrive and offer a premier experience to all. Keep those eyes peeled for more updates; exciting times are ahead!
