Bernhard Celebrates Lafayette Regional Airport’s New Terminal

_______________

Nearly 27 years ago, one of Bernhard’s first HVAC service customers in Lafayette was the Lafayette Regional Airport. This week, they are both celebrating the grand opening of the facility’s new terminal.

“Lafayette and Bernhard have a long and storied relationship,” said Doug Dorsey, Vice President at Bernhard. “As the city grew, we grew, and that’s represented with this new terminal.”

After months of construction on the terminal and vital airport infrastructure components, Lafayette Regional Airport opened its new terminal Jan. 20th.

Bernhard’s role in the project saw their team tasked with performing all HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems installation while transitioning the old terminal to the new structure with month-to-month HVAC services.

The new state-of-the-art LFT Terminal spans 120,000 square feet, which is double the size of the original where Bernhard has performed HVAC maintenance for almost three decades. Included in the expansion project is 966 parking spots, five departure and arrival gates with new jet bridges, a rotunda area with restaurant and bar, and two TSA security screening lines with the ability to add a third line if needed.

The previous terminal and all airport services remained open and in place while the new terminal was built adjacent.

“There were unique challenges with crews and utilizing equipment while staying out of the way of ongoing operations,” said Dorsey. “Our team takes a lot of pride in being able to solve those puzzles and deliver the best result for our customers.”

Louisiana’s history can be seen throughout the terminal design in subtle nuances. As visitors look up on arrival, they will notice panels of stained glass etched in the vibrant colors of the Acadian flag.

The New LFT Terminal project cost approximately $150 million and is 100% funded. The project was funded in part by $34 million in sales tax money approved in 2014 by Lafayette Parish voters.

“Seeing the ribbon cut on this project is a proud day for our team,” said Blake Greer, Lafayette Business Unit Manager at Bernhard. “Most of our crew members were born in Louisiana and still call this state home. Seeing an impact on our own local communities makes projects like this one special.”

_______________