meetinchicago.com The ATS is a fast, frequent, and convenient automated “people mover” at O’Hare. The driverless train system transports passengers between Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 5, as well as the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF), home to all rental cars. The upgraded ATS can accommodate twice as many passengers over the previous system. Future O’Hare Global Terminal At the forefront of O’Hare 21 are plans to redevelop existing Terminal 2 into the O’Hare Global Terminal and O’Hare Global Concourse, along with the addition of two new satellite concourses. At approximately 2 million square feet, the future terminal will dramatically improve the first impressions and curb-to-gate travel experience for millions of passengers arriving each year. It will more than double the space of today’s Terminal 2, replacing it with an expanded, light-filled arrivals hall with additional gates; add 75% more space for concessions, lounges, and amenities; upgrade to state-of-the-art baggage systems; and implement advanced technologies to improve security screening. This development will allow both American Airlines and United Airlines — as well as their international airline partners — to consolidate domestic and international operations in what are currently only domestic terminals, greatly enhancing how passengers make their connections. Café Descartes at Midway The Midway Modernization Program — the most significant capital program at Midway in nearly 20 years —continues to prepare the airport for future growth. New Dynamic Concessions Offerings The concessions expansion project calls for 70 new locations at Midway, increasing the total concessions area from about 40,000 square feet to more than 70,000 square feet. Several new local restaurants and shops have been added throughout the terminals and Central Market. Chicago concepts include Billy Goat Tavern and Grill, Café Descartes, and Harry Caray’s Shortstop. New and coming soon are Tallboy Taco, Garrett Popcorn Shops, and Orange Line. Security Checkpoint Expansion A new 80,000-square-foot security structure and expanded pedestrian bridge was completed in 2020. The security pavilion provides new technology and a streamlined single checkpoint area that is seven times wider than the previous security hall. This development, combined with new TSA automated lanes, increases the hourly throughput of passengers from 2,500 to 5,000 per hour — doubling previous capacity while maintaining the highest levels of security. Terminal Garage Enhancements The upgrade to Midway’s connected garage brought improvements to the exit plaza, a new revenue control system for more efficient entry and exiting, new electrical vehicle charging stations, elevator NEW & NOTEWORTHY AT MIDWAY A mere 10 miles from downtown, Midway (MDW) is a premier point-to-point airport for leisure and business travel. Seven air carriers at Midway provide service to 90 destinations, including 11 international destinations in Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
Chicago Meeting Professionals Guide 2023: Page 29
