Pinellas County commissioners are set to vote Tuesday on a major expansion plan for St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE), which has experienced record passenger growth this year.

The airport has broken monthly passenger records since February and expects 2025 to be its busiest year ever. Officials say the surge in travelers has strained the facility’s aging infrastructure, prompting a comprehensive expansion strategy.

The first phase involves constructing a new taxiway on the airport’s 130-acre former Airco Golf Course property, the largest undeveloped parcel in Pinellas County. The golf course closed in 2011. Due to flood zone restrictions, approximately 80 acres can be developed, with about 30 acres designated for aeronautical use.

Airport officials have recommended Hubbard Construction Company for the taxiway project, which could be completed by May 2027 if commissioners approve the contract. The taxiway must be built before any other development can proceed on the site.

Additional planned improvements include a 2,000-space parking garage to replace the existing 76-spot “Strawberry PIE” lot, scheduled to open in summer 2027, and approximately $110 million in terminal upgrades. The terminal improvements will add seating, new jet bridges, and other enhancements.

The expansion aims to reduce congestion and support continued tourism and economic growth in Pinellas County.

Follow the St. Pete-Clearwater Sun on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Google, & X

St. Pete-Clearwater Sun: local St. Pete-Clearwater news at PIE-Sun.com