Gensler, HDR and Luis Vidal form joint venture for $15m contract

Following months of evaluations, the Allegheny County Airport Authority (ACAA) has announced the firms who will design a new terminal set to transform Pittsburgh International Airport. American firms Gensler and HDR have entered into a $15 joint-venture agreement to deliver the programme, together with Spanish company Luis Vidal Architects. 

Eleven firms responded to the initial request for qualifications, which called for a new facility to consolidate check-in, ticketing, security and baggage operations. Four companies were invited to submit proposals, make presentations and undergo interviews. Christina Cassotis , CEO of ACAA, stated: “We are confident that we have assembled a world-class team with the vision, knowledge and experience necessary to work with all of our partners in building Pittsburgh’s airport – an airport that will transform the travel experience now and into the future and continue advancing our region.”

All three companies have extensive experience in the transport sector, with Gensler’s portfolio including Incheon International Airport in Korea. HDR, who will handle the engineering implementation of the design, worked on Honolulu International Airport, and the Greenfield Bridge replacement project. Bill Peduzzi, HDR Aviation Director, commented: “As a lifelong resident, I am thrilled to apply what I have learned from a career spent in airport development and hope to inspire the next generation of aviation leaders to continue to innovate and enhance the role great airports can play in a community.” 

Luis Vidal Architects were responsible for designing Terminal 2 at London Heathrow, and Luis Vidal himself was a leader of the team for the Terminal 4 project at Madrid-Barajas Airport. After the current win, he commented: “The Pittsburgh International Airport project will be reflective of its community; a design that is bold, unique and competitive and that will provide the first and last impression that people will carry with them of the Pittsburgh region.”

The Airport Authority Board members have approved a $15 million contract with the joint venture team for concepts to be drafted over the next few months, in a process which will involve engaging key stakeholders and gathering input into the final plans. The initial design is expected to be unveiled early next year.

Lucy Nordberg
TenderStream Head of Research

The request for proposals was first published by TenderStream here 

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