TRANSPORTATION
TRANSPORTATION
UNESCO Impressed by Art and Feat
By Diane C . Walsh Editor , COMMERCE
Newark Liberty International Airport ’ s new Terminal A is marking its first year with a design coup – the innovative structure was nominated for UNESCO ’ s 2023 Prix Versailles , a prestigious global architecture and design award .
The 1 million-square-foot terminal is the centerpiece of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey ’ s multi-phased airport redevelopment plan and one of the largest building projects in New Jersey ’ s history . It replaces the original Terminal A that dates to 1973 . The $ 2.7 billion structure boasts 21st Century innovation and technology with a decidedly Jersey flair .
“ Our agency is fully committed to offering our customers a world-class travel experience , and to be nominated among the world ’ s greatest airports is an honor and a testament to that vision ,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O ’ Toole . “ Terminal A ’ s remarkable design combines innovative technology , a multitude of local influences and an impeccable interior , marking the first step in a full reimagining of Newark Liberty .”
It was delivered as part of a design-build consortium led by Tutor Perini / Parsons JV with Grimshaw as the design architect in partnership with STV as executive architect . EWR is among the busiest North American and international airports . In 2022 Newark served more than 43.5 million passengers and handled nearly 75,000 tons of air cargo .
The new Terminal A expects to generate more than $ 4.6 billion in regional economic activity , create more than 2,500 jobs and provide more than $ 1.9 billion in wages .
Alongside innovative amenities and eye-catching design , Terminal A also offers an unmistakable sense of place . The facility features several displays by an array of regional artists , including “ Between Future Past ,” which is artist Layqa Nuna Yawar ’ s 350-foot-wide mural celebrating any array of significant individuals throughout Newark ’ s past , as well as artist Karyn Olivier ’ s “ Approach ,” a twin pair of 50-foot suspended sculptures depicting different views of the New Jersey cities of Newark and Elizabeth captured from sunrise to nightfall .
The goal of the art program is to transform the terminal into a civic space and artistic center that reflects the creativity , innovation , and diversity of New Jersey and its region .
Innovation abounds throughout the terminal . It features digital wayfinding with New Jersey-themed fun facts and quizzes . Many of the airport lounges also feature locally sourced furniture and décor . The Jersey flair extends to the food concessions which offer delicious fare
New Terminal A at Newark International Airport
from stores based in Newark , Elizabeth , and Jersey City .
Next month UNESCO ( United Nations Educational , Scientific and Cultural Organization ) will announce the winners of it coveted award . The Prix Versailles , created in 2015 , aims to highlight “ intelligent sustainability ” as a cultural driver , touching on every aspect of the built environment . Recipients of the award , as cited by UNESCO , are selected for the
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