San Antonio Airport Seeks Bids for New Terminal Roadways

San Antonio International Airport (SAT) has advanced a key component of its multi-billion dollar expansion by issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the curbside roadways package associated with its new terminal. The solicitation, released on March 9, 2026, marks a critical procurement step in the airport's comprehensive Terminal Development Program (TDP).

The new roadway network is an essential enabling project for the new Terminal C, the centerpiece of the $2.5 billion TDP. This initiative represents the largest capital improvement plan in the history of the City of San Antonio, designed to modernize the airport and accommodate projected passenger growth for decades to come. The development is guided by the airport's larger 20-year Strategic Development Plan (SDP), which outlines a long-term vision for SAT's role as a regional economic engine.

Program Scope and Timeline

Construction on the new Terminal C officially began on December 10, 2024. The facility, scheduled for completion in mid-2028, will significantly increase the airport's capacity and enhance the passenger experience. According to airport officials, the new terminal will encompass over 850,000 square feet, adding up to 17 new gates, a significant increase to the airport's current footprint. The design also incorporates modern traveler amenities, with plans for 41,000 square feet of new concession space and 29,000 square feet for airline clubs.

The roadway project now entering the procurement phase will reconfigure ground access to the airport, separating traffic flows and improving connectivity between existing terminals and the future Terminal C. The successful bidder will be responsible for constructing the new elevated and at-grade roadways, curbside drop-off and pick-up zones, and associated utilities necessary to support the new facility.

This expansion is proceeding even as the airport navigates post-pandemic traffic fluctuations. Airport statistics show that in October 2025, SAT served 961,792 passengers. While this figure reflects a slight decline from the record-breaking traffic seen in 2023 and 2024, the long-term investment underscores confidence in the region's continued growth.

Regulatory and Financial Context

Projects of this scale are subject to federal oversight and often benefit from federal funding. The construction will be required to adhere to strict standards set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), including those outlined in FAA Advisory Circular (AC) 150/5370-10, which governs the 'Standards for Specifying Construction of Airports.' The geometric layout and design will also be informed by AC 150/5300-13B/C, which details airport design standards. Funding for such infrastructure is often supported by the FAA's Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which necessitates compliance with all federal regulations.

City and airport leadership have framed the project as a vital investment. In a statement on the project, San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg said, “SAT continues to rise to the occasion and meet the demand of our region's expansion. This new terminal will help the airport accomplish even more continued growth, fostering the development of important connections and business opportunities for our region.”

Jesus Saenz, Director of Airports, added, “This groundbreaking is more than just the start of a construction project. It is the beginning of a new chapter for our airport and our community.”

The comprehensive Terminal Development Program is part of a broader trend of airport modernization across the United States, as airports race to upgrade aging infrastructure to handle increased demand and improve operational efficiency.

Why This Matters

For San Antonio, the issuance of the roadways RFP is a tangible sign of progress on a transformative infrastructure project. The development positions SAT to better compete for new routes and air services while providing an improved gateway for both business and leisure travelers. The project's scale solidifies the airport's role as a primary driver of economic activity for the South Texas region.