President Trump announced plans for a $22.5 billion overhaul of Washington Dulles International Airport, a project he described as a major and long-overdue renovation of the facility located approximately 20 miles outside the nation's capital.
"It's time to ensure that the United States has the greatest airports anywhere in the world. And we're starting right here with the capital city," Trump stated. He has previously criticized the airport, particularly its shuttle system, which has been described as "Star Wars"-like.
The proposed renovation includes the removal of the current shuttle system, often referred to as "people movers," and the construction of a substantial parking garage. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy described the existing airport as "dark, it is dated, a little dank maybe."
The plans, which Trump personally reviewed and highlighted using a laser pointer in the Oval Office, feature five new terminals intended to replace the existing four. The redesign also incorporates an underground tunnel for pedestrian access between terminals, additional moving sidewalks, and a parking garage with an estimated 32,000 spaces. "We're building a massive nine-story, eight-story, 10-story. We're not sure yet – but we're building a garage, that is a parking garage that will be right next to the terminal,' Trump said. "You'll walk right across the street, and you'll have a glass bridge, a number of glass bridges that will go right into the terminal. Right now, you have to walk so far."
Modern check-in areas, enhanced security screening, new hotels, restaurants, and shops are also part of the overhaul. The project is expected to take two years to complete and will be funded through bonds and contributions from airlines, with United Airlines, a primary carrier at Dulles, expected to participate in the financing.
The original curvature design of the main terminal, conceived by architect Eero Saarinen, will be preserved. "We are announcing plans to add more than 5,000,000 square feet of new or renovated space will replace the current C and D concourses, which are basic disasters, all the while preserving the iconic original terminal that is one of the great architects of the world," Trump said.
This airport project follows other significant renovation efforts in Washington D.C. during his administration, including updates to the White House and the Kennedy Center. In the past, there was consideration by some Republicans to rename Dulles after Trump, but the Palm Beach International Airport in Florida was ultimately given that designation. Trump also indicated plans to upgrade the Palm Beach airport.