ABOUT THE TMSP: OVERVIEW • PARKING IMPROVEMENTS • BUDGET OVERVIEW
T
he Terminal Modernization and Seismic Program (TMSP) at Memphis International Airport is the next phase of modernization at MEM. In 2022, the redesigned concourse opened at MEM to great fanfare, featuring tall ceilings and windows providing an abundance of natural light, a variety of local artwork celebrating Memphis culture, and a multitude of conveniences for travelers.
During the Concourse Modernization project, all airline, retail, and restaurant operations were consolidated onto a single, easily navigable concourse. Its 23 gates now accommodate all commercial aircraft that fly into and out of MEM. As part of the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (MSCAA) Master Plan, Concourses A and C were shuttered and plans made to improve the use of that space around the terminal and concourse.
Once the old structures are demolished, work will begin on modernizing the terminal and building structures to further improve the passenger experience. One of these projects is a new MSCAA Administration / Checked Baggage Inspection System (CBIS) building.
The MSCAA Master Plan shows Concourse A as the likely site for a new Consolidated Rental Car Center (CONRAC). This location would add convenience for passengers by enabling the CONRAC to connect directly to the airport terminal. It would also free up the first two floors of the economy parking garage for more passenger parking. This project is not part of the modernized terminal project and is still in design.
Parking Improvements
Future improvements include parking system upgrades, a parking spot guidance system, and real-time parking availability info on flymemphis.com.
Parking Improvements already in place include:
• Increased Parking: More than 800 parking spaces were added to the Yellow Lot in Fall 2024
• New parking ticket and payment system installed in Fall 2024
• License Plate Recognition (LPR) cameras: This system identifies vehicles by their license plates. It uses light and an infrared camera to take images of the back of vehicles. Then, the image-processing software analyzes the images to extract license plate information. This safety feature allows Airport Police to know who is coming and going at the Airport.
• New parking guidance system: This system combines traffic monitoring, onsite communication, and parking sensor technologies to improve travelers’ parking experiences. The system will allow drivers to find unoccupied parking spaces. It will also help passengers locate their cars when returning from trips.
Future improvements include parking system upgrades, a parking spot guidance system, and real-time parking availability info on flymemphis.com.
Budget Overview
The current estimated cost for modernizing Terminal B and related projects is $700 million. It is the largest capital project in MEM’s history. This budget figure is an early estimate. It is likely to increase as design and construction details are finalized.
Project funding will include:
• General airport revenue bonds,
• State and federal grants,
• Passenger facility charges (PFCs) and
• Other Authority capital funds.
No city or county tax dollars will be used to fund the project.