KEARNEY, NE — Kearney is moving forward with plans to add on to its airport terminal.

The Kearney City Council awarded the terminal construction bid to RMV Construction for $4.77 million at its meeting Tuesday night. The decision approves an expansion project that was scaled back after the lone bid for the original plan came in more than $7 million over budget.

This smaller plan still increases the size of the Kearney Regional Airport terminal by 64%. The new addition will add 4,325 square feet, bringing the terminal to 11,265 total square feet. 

At the council meeting Tuesday night, Assistant City Manager Eric Hellriegel said the expansion will include an additional TSA checkpoint, a baggage screening devise, additional secure holding space, more baggage storage and family restrooms. When completed, the terminal waiting room will hold about 100 people. Hellriegel said the project goals are to improve operational efficiency, accommodate enplanement growth, add physical space and separate inbound/outbound traffic.

The project is fully funded with proceeds from the City of Kearney CARES Act grant for airport facilities development.