As part of a $1 billion capital improvement project known as the South Terminal Redevelopment Program, Denver International Airport (DIA) plans to build a train station connecting the airport to downtown Denver, as well as a 500-room hotel and conference center connected to its terminal, it announced last month.
"Denver International Airport is one of the most envied facilities in the industry," Denver Manager of Aviation Kim Day said in a statement. "With the addition of the rail connection to our city core and the terminal hotel, we will truly be competitive with major international airports worldwide. The design complements the existing iconic architecture and provides an enhanced passenger experience while improving the connectivity for passengers and employees alike."
Phase one in a two-phase project, the train station and hotel are scheduled for completion in 2016 and expected to create more than 6,600 jobs in the Denver area at an estimated cost of $650 million. Costing an addition $250 million — bringing the project total to $900 million — phase two is optional and could include a new parking structure and renovations to the airport's terminal.