Ground Broken on New Cargo Facilities at San Francisco International Airport

Ground was broken on a new cargo facilities project at San Francisco International Airport in California. Encompassing a new cargo building and ancillary ground service equipment maintenance building, the redevelopment project will allow the airport to meet growing cargo demands and improve operations efficiency and safety. Skanska is serving as the general contractor on the project

The new cargo facility will include 95,000 square feet of cargo area and 25,000 square feet of mezzanine office space. It will also provide landside maneuvering depth to accommodate approximately 30 trucks, extending from West Field Road. The 17,000-square-foot GSE maintenance facility will be situated onsite, but physically separate from the main cargo facility.

The project aligns with San Francisco’s sustainability goals, incorporating PV solar panels, battery storage systems and electric vehicle-capable infrastructure to support future tenants. The design also prioritizes natural lighting and the use of sustainable materials to reduce energy consumption and minimize environmental impact.

Unique construction methods are being employed to overcome challenges, including strict height restrictions near runways limiting crane height and requiring the installation of piles in multiple welded sections. Obstacles posed by outdated infrastructure and undocumented underground utilities are being addressed through extensive site research, including ground penetrating radar, tracing and potholing, to create an accurate as-built record of existing utilities. The project also promotes inclusive economic participation through its commitment to local business enterprise involvement and workforce development. Additionally, it will integrate public art elements as part of the airport’s Cultural Arts Program.

Being delivered via Design-Build with Woods Bagot serving as architect, the project is estimated to be complete in early 2028.