Terminal remodel should be done in five months

By Terry Murry on Monday, July 25th, 2022 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

PENDLETON – Boutique Air flights are still flying round-trip flights between Pendleton and Portland, but the terminal is locked up tight as a massive remodeling project is underway. Travelers are being directed to two temporary buildings while the work is in progress

The city of Pendleton received a CARES Act grant of more than $3.7 million, which specified it was for use at airports only. Economic Development Director Steve Chrisman said it was a great gift because the terminal was showing its age.

“The whole building is going to be so much more efficient to run,” Chrisman said. “It was very old. It cost a lot. The HVAC system was constantly breaking down.”

Chrisman estimates it will take another four to five months to complete the remodel.

“When it’s done, I think folks are going to be impressed,” he said. “Painting the exterior, new flooring inside. It will keep the same general Western theme, which we’re very proud of.”

Chrisman said the colors for the terminal will remain similar, but the new paint job will correct peeling and other flaws from the last paint job.