RIC Moves Forward With $250M Plan for Centralized Security Checkpoint

By Billy Briefman · October 19, 2026 · 2 min read read

RIC Readies Design Team, Fields Contractor Proposals for New $250M Security Checkpoint Originally reported by Richmond BizSense. Richmond BizSense Richmond International Airport officials are...

RIC Readies Design Team, Fields Contractor Proposals for New $250M Security Checkpoint

Originally reported by Richmond BizSense. Richmond BizSense

Richmond International Airport officials are assembling a design team and reviewing contractor proposals for a $250 million consolidated security checkpoint project to modernize screening and streamline passenger flow at the facility.

The massive infrastructure investment replaces the current split-concourse security setup with a centralized system. According to Richmond BizSense, the Capital Region Airport Commission is currently evaluating bids to determine which firms will lead the construction and design phases of the facility.

Consolidating Concourse Operations

The project represents one of the largest capital improvements in the airport's history. By centralizing the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints, the airport intends to improve efficiency for travelers moving through the terminal. Currently, passengers must clear security at separate entrances depending on their departure gate in Concourse A or Concourse B.

According to reports from Richmond BizSense, the commission has already begun the process of fielding proposals from contractors interested in the quarter-billion-dollar undertaking. The new design will physically link the two concourses behind the security perimeter, allowing passengers to access all airport amenities and gates without exiting and re-entering screening areas.

Funding and Timeline

The $250 million price tag covers the comprehensive redesign and construction of the terminal's central footprint. While specific construction start dates depend on the final selection of the design-build team, the commission continues to review the technical requirements for the expansion. According to Richmond BizSense, the airport is prioritizing a design that accommodates future growth in passenger volume while maintaining current operations during the build-out.

The selection of the design team marks a critical milestone for the project, as the commission transitions from conceptual planning to active development. Officials expect the new checkpoint to serve as the primary gateway for all departing passengers once completed.

This article is based on reporting originally published by Richmond BizSense. Channel RVA provides this coverage with additional local context for the Richmond community.