Skanska, a global construction and development firm, has begun construction on a significant new cargo facilities project at San Francisco International Airport (SFO).
Encompassing a new cargo building and ancillary Ground Service Equipment (GSE) maintenance building, the redevelopment project will allow the airport to meet growing cargo demands and improve operational efficiency and safety.
The new cargo facility will include 95,000 square-feet of cargo area and 25,000 square-feet of mezzanine office space.
It will also provide landside manoeuvring depth to accommodate approximately 30 trucks, extending from West Field Road.
The 17,000 square-foot GSE maintenance facility will be situated on-site, but physically separate from the main cargo facility.
Gordon Childress, Executive Vice President, General Manager for Skanska USA Building in California stated: “We are proud to partner with SFO on this vital redevelopment.
“This project is a critical step in modernising SFO’s infrastructure and will deliver significant benefits to airlines, freight operators and passengers alike.”
The project aligns with San Francisco’s sustainability goals, incorporating PV solar panels, battery storage systems and electric vehicle (EV)-capable infrastructure to support future tenants.
The design also prioritises natural lighting and the use of sustainable materials to reduce energy consumption and minimise environmental impact.
Unique construction methods are being employed to overcome challenges, including strict height restrictions near runways, limiting crane height and requiring the installation of piles in multiple welded sections.
Obstacles posed by outdated infrastructure and undocumented underground utilities are being addressed through extensive site research, including Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), tracing and potholing, to create an accurate as-built record of existing utilities.
Childress added: “Through dedicated collaboration of all parties involved, we are working to deliver a highly functional and sustainable space that seamlessly integrates with the airport’s intricate ecosystem.
“We are committed to prioritising innovative solutions to overcome unique site challenges, guaranteeing the facility’s efficiency and environmental responsibility.”
