Preparing for Modernization: Recent and Ongoing Gap Improvement Projects!

Before Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) began its multiyear Terminal Modernization Development Program, several important gap improvement projects have been launched to ensure a smoother transition into full modernization.

These earlystage upgrades improve operations today while laying the foundation for the larger transformations ahead.

Below is a look at the major projects completed or underway since late 2024.

Sheraton Hotel Demolition & Materials Recycling

CLE began its modernization journey by demolishing the former Sheraton Hotel in October 2024, one of the earliest enabling projects supporting future airport expansion and landside redesign. Contractor Baumann Enterprises has placed sustainability at the forefront of this work, preparing to recycle an estimated 85% of materials removed from the site.

What’s being recycled?

• Clean wood

• Concrete

• Steel

• Brick

• Nonferrous metals

In just the first two weeks, 2,480 cubic yards of material were diverted from landfills. Once processed, these materials take on new life in the form of mulch, landscaping stone, crushed aggregate for construction projects, infield mix for baseball diamonds, and even biomass fuel used in greenhouses.

This sustainable approach reduces waste today while preparing the site for what comes next. The cleared Sheraton footprint will ultimately support major modernization efforts, including expanded parking, roadway improvements, and longterm terminal redevelopment.

Lower Roadway Rehabilitation Project

Launched in April 2025, this major infrastructure project focuses on the 2,100foot pedestrian tunnel on the RTA level, an essential connection linking the terminal to ground transportation and public transit. Built in the late 1960s, the tunnel has been undergoing full waterproofing and structural rehabilitation to ensure safer, more reliable access for travelers long into the future.

What’s Included in the Improvements

• Tunnel membrane waterproofing

• Structural steel and reinforcedconcrete repairs

• Concrete wall restoration

• Installation of a new drainage system

• Relocation of electrical services to Electrical Vault EV6

• Plumbing modifications within the mechanical room

To complete this work safely, two of the four lanes on the lower roadway have been closed during certain phases of construction. Travelers may have seen brief slowdowns and have been encouraged to use:

• Doors 5–7 for arrivals

• The Departures level for pickups

• The skywalk between the parking garage and terminal for easier movement
  

Project Timeline

Work has been progressing through four phases:

1. Rehabilitation of the west side of the tunnel

2. Repair of the south half of the remaining tunnel

3. Completion of the final tunnel area

4. Renewal of the lower roadway surface

RS&H is providing construction management, inspection, and administrative support, while SMCI is performing the construction work.

Project completion is currently tentative for late March.

Central Security Checkpoint Expansion

Construction began in June 2025 for the Central Security Checkpoint Expansion, one of CLE’s most visible passengerexperience improvements, designed to ease congestion, increase screening capacity, and support more efficient guest flow during peak travel times. Work has continued steadily throughout the year.

The project expands the checkpoint footprint northward into the former restroom and Interfaith Center area, creating space for two additional TSA screening lanes and dramatically increasing queue capacity, from roughly 120 linear feet to more than 300. The stairs and ramp are also being repositioned to eliminate the pinch point that often formed when lines grew beyond the existing queue space. The CLEAR screening area will be reconfigured as well, making the entire checkpoint layout more streamlined and intuitive for travelers.

Despite the active construction zone, the Central Security Checkpoint has remained open throughout the project, with CLE taking steps to minimize disruptions wherever possible.

A Notable Milestone: New Restrooms and CLE’s First Adult Changing Station

On November 19, 2025, CLE celebrated the opening of its newly constructed restroom facilities in the Central Checkpoint area, an important early milestone of the expansion project.

This upgrade was more than just a refresh; it introduced entirely new facilities, including a family restroom equipped with CLE’s first adult changing station.

The changing station was generously donated by the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities (CCBDD). Cleveland City Councilman Brian Kazy helped connect the airport with CCBDD, ensuring this vital accessibility feature became part of the expansion effort.

As CCBDD Director of Community Employment Janet Keeler shared, “This changing table may seem like a small addition, but for people who rely on it, it makes a world of difference.”

The addition supports CLE’s broader commitment to accessibility and hospitality, complementing programs such as the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, Hopkins Hounds, and Hopkins Flight School.

Completion of the Central Security Checkpoint Expansion is currently tentative for late April.

Why These Projects Matter

These early and current improvements enhance safety, efficiency, and the traveler experience while preparing key spaces like parking areas, roadways, circulation paths, security, and utility infrastructure for CLE’s comprehensive modernization program.

Each step moves CLE closer to delivering a more modern, accessible, and welcoming airport for the region.