Houston Airport System, George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Terminal Redevelopment Program (ITRP)

Burns has served as the prime technology and security engineering consultant throughout renovations and expansion of the Mickey Leland International Terminal (MLIT). Burns also led design and production of the International Central Processor’s innovative multimedia installation.

Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport’s Terminal Redevelopment Program (ITRP) is a major expansion and refurbishment initiative, improving the passenger experience at one of the busiest airports in the country. The $1.458-billion ITRP is the largest capital program in the Houston Airport System’s history.

ITRP’s main components include:

• Refresh of Terminal D (completed in 2023)
• Expansion of Terminal D with a new D-West Pier (open to the public October 2024)
• Construction of a new Check Baggage Inspection Service (CBIS) building and new International Central Processor (ICP) terminal

Following the expansion, Bush Intercontinental will be positioned to accommodate international airline growth, resolve roadway and curbside capacity constraints, and improve passenger experiences with modern security and baggage handling systems. The ICP’s 17-lane security checkpoint will be among the largest in the country. Terminal D-West Pier adds six gates, almost doubling the terminal’s capacity. Terminal D capacity will include 18 swing gates, available for both international and domestic flights.

Burns supported Fentress Architects to deliver a combination of technology and security system design services. Burns oversaw the design, engineering and installation of MLIT’s new and upgraded dynamic signage, security, and information-communication technology systems. Airport technology systems include:

• Network and communications infrastructure
• Gate management systems
• Common use systems
• Electronic visual information display systems
• Fire alarm system
• Access control system
• Security camera and digital video management systems
• Public safety distributed antenna system

In addition, Burns led design and implementation of the ICP’s state-of-the-art multimedia installation. The main focal point is “The Oculus,” featuring 200 feet of seamless digital display visible across two levels.

Supporting the HOK and Page architectural design team, Burns guided the Houston Airport System through the design, procurement and implementation for the immersive multimedia system. Services included leading the process identifying the installation’s unique display technology, tailored content management system, and distinctly unique HAS content. The Oculus will feature direct-view LED display technology, integrating various audiovisual, structural, electrical and communications support systems.

ITRP is scheduled to complete construction in 2025.