CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Chicago's Department of Aviation held a celebration Tuesday for the grand opening of the renovated and expanded Terminal 5 at O'Hare Airport.
The $1.3 billion project began back in 2019 and includes improvements aimed at making the terminal more efficient and more accommodating for passengers and planes.
Passengers will benefit from a more efficient baggage handling system.
The redesign will also allow for more flexibility when it comes to organizing planes at the airport, according to CDA Commissioner Jamie Rhee.
"The 'L'-shaped, east extension includes gates that are fully adaptable, allowing us to park three narrow-body aircraft in the same space that we could only park two wide-bodies," Rhee said.
Artwork from more than 20 artists will be featured in the newly renovated terminal, thanks to a $3.5 million public art plan included in the Terminal 5 expansion and modernization.
"This $3.5 million presents a unique opportunity to invest in Chicago artists and creative workers while providing international visitors with a dynamic and welcoming first impression of our city," said Erin Harkey, the Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.
The terminal will also offer local concessions and a brand new Delta Sky Club.
A six-story parking garage is set to be finished by 2024.
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