The Weitz Company has been selected by Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport to upgrade its Terminal 4 Baggage Handling System (BHS) for an estimated $50 million in construction costs. The project award encompasses preconstruction services and construction in partnership with JSM & Associates.
This project will primarily focus on the outbound BHS servicing the North concourses and inbound system. The complete modernization of Terminal 4 BHS includes T4 North (T4N), T4 International (T4I), T4 Recheck (T4R), T4 FIS (T4FIS), and T4 In-Bound 1 thru 7 (T4IB1-7).
“The baggage handling equipment likely isn’t on the average traveler’s mind, but its purpose, efficiency, and reliability directly connect to the traveler’s experiences, and it must be sound. What this project requires is an understanding and coordination of PHX needs, TSA needs, and the dynamic atmosphere in which the work will be performed,” says Ben Bunge, Weitz’s Director of Aviation. “The Weitz team provides the depth of readily available resources, specialized expertise, aviation experience, and aviation knowledge combined with over 44 years of local experience, including Phoenix Sky Train, to support the airport in successfully delivering this project.”
Weitz and JSM have successfully completed years of BHS projects together. The two companies plan to modernize the 32-year-old baggage handling system in part by using a phased design and implementation plan, including contingency planning, showing a smooth transition between new and existing systems while not impacting active airport operations and passenger experience. BIM Technology will also be used to show work in 3D, which increases cost certainty and project communication.
“One approach The Weitz Company takes is capitalizing first on local involvement,” says Mina Wassef, Weitz Southwest General Manager. “Weitz has extensive experience working with small businesses and we value those partnerships with vendors and trades which encapsulate the local market. We are excited to involve the community as we embark on this project.”
The Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport Terminal 4 BHS Upgrades CMAR procurement and design will occur in 2023 – 2024. Construction will begin in 2024 and is expected to be completed in 2027. Upon completion, the BHS will be more reliable, and operationally efficient, compliant with TSA Planning Guidelines & Design Standards Version 7.0, more energy efficient, and less costly to operate due to reduced maintenance trouble calls and system outages.
