Vero Beach Regional Airport has completed a $3 million renovation project that includes dual baggage claim gates, covered walkways, a new courtyard and canopies over passenger areas. The upgrades, which also feature a turf patio and redesigned baggage claim area, drew praise from travelers who described significantly improved conditions compared to the previous facility.
Brandon Dambeck, interim airport director, said the new baggage claim system allows passengers to pick up their bags within 100 feet of where the aircraft arrives. The renovations include a new courtyard with seating where passengers can wait for their flights, along with canopies over the passenger walkways and baggage claim areas.
Passenger Austin Garafola described the improvements, saying it is definitely a lot better and passengers now go right in under the awning instead of waiting in single file and getting rained on. Passenger Doris Newell said the facility and accessibility are great and wonderful.
The airport serves three commercial airlines: American, JetBlue and Breeze. Airport officials announced plans for a concession area for departing passengers, and new long-term parking has been approved. The airport also plans to invite the community this fall to weigh in on potential designs for a terminal expansion. Dambeck said the changes create a better experience for passengers as they wait for their flights.