The City of Indianapolis should continue to implement plans for the airport’s new midfield terminal, improvements of I-70, and the need to create direct airline service to and from cities and regions important to emerging businesses in central Indiana, including international destinations.
The Indianapolis International Airport originally opened in 1931 and underwent construction of the existing terminal beginning in 1957. In 1975, a master plan was developed for the airport with the recommendation that a midfield terminal be constructed. Twenty-five years later, development is underway for the new terminal. Construction of the project has been projected to take six years and a projected cost of $900 million.
The reason for the needed expansion is simple: the airport has seen a dramatic increase of travelers. In a 1999 study, the number of passenger enplanements was 3.7 million and projections are that this number will increase 30% by 2010, and 108% by 2020.
Indianapolis is truly a "crossroads" community. It is located close to many other major cities and offers amenities to suit all lifestyles. This is evident in the diligence to improve the downtown area and make it more attractive to visitors. Development of Circle Centre mall, the Indianapolis Convention Center, Conseco Fieldhouse, and other facilities has been a major attraction for decision-makers to host national conferences, conventions, and major sporting events in this city.
Visitors to Indianapolis expect efficient travel arrangements, indicating that direct flights are imperative to the success of the new facility and the economic vitality of the city. Observance of daylight saving time is key to the efficiency of travel and to the city’s economy. Observance of daylight saving time will result in major savings for the business community. It would result in less flight confusion and a more enjoyable travel experience for leisure travelers. The positive economic impact of the midfield terminal will be felt throughout the central Indiana region.
What the Greater Indianapolis Chamber is doing:
- At the request of Indianapolis Mayor Bart Peterson, the Chamber participated in a news conference regarding development of the new terminal. We work to encourage airlines to provide more direct flights to and from Indianapolis.
- The Chamber supports Daylight Saving Time, which will increase air travel to Indianapolis.
What YOU can do:
- Email your legislator to support DST. Go to Capitol Wiz to find out who your legislator is.
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