New Bob Hope Airport terminal Needs Voter Approval

burbankOfficials seek public input on Bob Hope Airport terminal New facility that would meet federal standards will need voter approval.

Bob Hope Airport officials want to build a new terminal, and they’re seeking the participation of Burbank residents in the planning process – because ultimately the public will get the final say on its approval.

The Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Authority will debut its proposed plan for a new 14-gate terminal to replace the current 83-year-old building during two informational meetings on Monday.

The first will be held during the authority’s normal morning meeting at 9 a.m., and another will be held at 6 p.m., both in the airport’s Skyroom, which is accessible through the terminal’s main entrance.

Airport officials say a new terminal is needed because the current building is too close to the runways – 250 feet instead of the required 750 feet – to meet Federal Aviation Administration safety standards.

Airport Executive Director Dan Feger said the informational meetings are crucial to build community support for a new terminal.

“We’ve got one opportunity to do this right, and we want to make sure we’re giving people what they expect in this gateway to Burbank,” he said.

Because of provisions in Measure B, which was approved by Burbank voters in 2000, finalized plans for a new terminal must be approved by Burbank residents at the polls.

The airport will host another informational meeting that will focus on the opportunities for the so-called B6 parcel, a 58-acre lot owned by the airport that is earmarked for future development. The parcel is adjacent to the airfield, located to the north of the current terminal and east of the proposed replacement terminal.

To learn more about the meetings or to submit a question or comment about the process, visit the airport’s website, www.burbankairport.com, and select the link “The Future of the Airport: Ground Transportation and Land Use Study.”