JFK Airport redevelopment could cause some Memorial Day weekend travel delays
NEW YORK CITY (WABC) -- As millions prepare to travel for Memorial Day Weekend, those flying out or into JFK Airport in New York may be in store for a few delays.
The airport is currently undergoing a massive $19-billion redevelopment that's hoping to modernize the decades-old airport.
Rick Cotton, executive director at Port Authority, said any hiccups felt as a result of the ongoing construction will be worth it once the project is complete.
"We are confident that once travelers see the new JFK everyone will agree that the pain will be worth the gain," he said.
The 80-year-old airport's redevelopment includes building new terminals, redesigning the on-airport traffic pattern, expanding taxiways, and centralizing ground transportation.
Some 64 million people are expected to fly in and out of JFK this year alone. And once the reconstruction is done, there will be a few new amenities for travelers to take advantage of.
"We're also opening a free cell phone or free easy lot adjacent to the Lefferts Boulevard AirTrain station, it's a free eight-minute ride to the terminals, so either drop off or meet your loved one at the Lefferts Boulevard easy lot," said program executive Jessica Forse.
The airport released some travel tips including:
- Allow extra time due to roadway construction
- Use public transportation if possible
- Check JFK social media for important updates
- Use alternate pick-up and drop-off locations
Officials expect 3.5 million people to pass through TSA checkpoints this Memorial Day weekend.
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