North Carolina Construction News staff writer
Major changes are expected at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) Terminal 2 where a new floor-to-ceiling construction wall now spans the hall’s north end. The wall marks the start of a significant expansion designed to modernize the terminal and improve the passenger experience.
Airport officials say the barrier allows construction crews to safely work on a large-scale expansion that touches the ticketing hall itself. The project includes adding more lanes and space to international arrivals, upgrading the baggage handling system, and enhancing overall terminal capacity.
“All ticket counters and security checkpoint lanes will remain open, so travelers should see little to no disruption to their trips,” said airport representatives. However, passengers may notice noise or activity associated with ongoing construction and are still encouraged to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours prior to international departures.
The construction wall is expected to remain in place for roughly two years as this phase of work progresses. The full Terminal 2 expansion is a long-term project, with completion anticipated in 2032 as part of RDU’s $2.5 billion Transform RDU capital improvement program.
RDU’s Transform RDU program is a decade-long investment in infrastructure improvements aimed at expanding capacity, modernizing facilities, and enhancing the passenger experience:
Parking Expansion – Balfour Beatty – Metcon Joint Venture (with Right Build and Varnedoe Construction): Thousands of new parking spaces, an on-site Customer Amenity Building, solar panels, and EV chargers are being added to Park Economy 3. Phased openings are planned through 2026.
New Runway – Balfour Beatty (Construction Manager‑at‑Risk): A longer runway will accommodate more passengers and cargo, enabling the future addition of gates at Terminal 2.
Terminal 2 Expansion – Balfour Beatty/Metcon Joint Venture: The terminal expansion will reduce wait times at ticket counters, security checkpoints, and baggage claim, while providing more space for international arrivals.
John Brantley Boulevard Extension – Contractor (Design Phase) Kimley‑Horn: A pre-construction project will widen and extend the airport’s main roadway, adding lanes and a longer curbside to improve traffic flow and reduce delays.
RDU officials say the program represents a major investment in the airport’s future, ensuring the facility keeps pace with growing passenger demand and new air service.
Construction is already underway across multiple sites, and travelers can expect a phased, multi-year transformation of both terminal and airport infrastructure.