KENT COUNTY, Mich.– More local flavor is coming to Gerald R Ford International Airport. Today, board members approved a list of enhancements that will include healthier food, local brews, and a consolidated security checkpoint. Some of these changes will take up to five years to complete, but travelers will notice many of them starting as early as October.
“We’re in need of an upgrade of these concessions and retail offerings,” said Brian Ryks, Executive Director of the Kent County Dept of Aeronautics. “We need to get them up to a little higher standard and this is the perfect opportunity.”
Grand Rapids resident, Maria Kocsis, believes it’s time Gerald R Ford International Airport gets a newer look.
“This airport could use a lot of upgrades,” said Kocsis. “Expecially compared to other airports. This airport seems to have stood still.”
Happening soon is the transformation of the current newsstand into a Grand Rapids Magazine themed gift and travel store.
Starbucks and Quinzos will stay as is, but Pizza Hut and Cinnabon will fly away and a healthier, Fresh Express, will land in their place.
Travelers in the mood for a sit down meal and brew will soon see a Bell’s Brewery replace the current Home Turf Bar and Restaurant.
All these changes happening in Concourse A will go much faster since it requires some minor renovations. But taking a little longer are the changes coming to Concourse B as crews start an expansion project.
“In addition to the expansion, we’re going to be adding some color, some vibrancy to that concourse,” said Ryks.
Eventually, travelers will see a new Great Lakes Tap Room featuring popular, local brews from Founders and New Holland.
That’s expected to open summer of 2014.
