The joint venture, Willmeng Construction Inc., a Phoenix-based commercial general contractor and Fann Contracting, a Prescott-based heavy civil construction company, recently celebrated the topping out of the new 18,000 SF passenger terminal at Prescott Regional Airport Ernest A. Love Field. The topping-out marked the placement of the final wooden boards atop the structure to be completed in March of 2021. While many are taking a break from flying during the COVID-19 pandemic, the progress of this terminal speaks to the diligence and tenacity of the Town of Prescott and the whole project team in delivering a terminal that meets the airport’s future needs.
“As we approach the halfway point in this project, we couldn’t be more thankful for the collaborative effort that has brought this project to life,” remarked James Murphy, Willmeng CEO. “From Mayor Mengarelli to Robin Sobotta, Prescott Airport Director, the community's commitment to this project has been second to none. There have been so many contributions to date from all parties; including, the City of Prescott's development services and aviation teams, DWL Architects, Dibble Engineering, and Fann Contracting. DWL has done a phenomenal job designing and detailing an airport terminal that the Tri-City community will be proud of for decades to come.”
Willmeng Principal-in-Charge, Keith Sabia shares Prescott Regional Airport Ernest A. Love Field construction update and meaning behind a Topping Out Ceremony. Photo by Small Giants
Tongue and groove Douglas Fir boards were signed by guests and local officials who attended the small ceremony marking the completion of the roof structure. Even after construction is complete the Douglas Fir tongue and groove boards will be seen by terminal visitors at the top of the ceiling right above the entrance of the front doors, highlighting the many people that made this new passenger terminal possible.
“It was great to attend the Topping Out ceremony, and to see firsthand the progress on the new passenger terminal,” said Greg Mengarelli, Mayor, City of Prescott. “This new terminal will provide a state-of-the-art travel experience for passengers traveling through Prescott.”
Community members, elected officials, and construction and design teams partake in signing the Douglas Fir boards before the construction team lifts them into place. Photo by Small Giants
The event was not open to the public in order to comply with Gov. Doug Ducey’s executive order limiting the gathering of large crowds. Attendees wore masks and socially distanced themselves, yet their presence signified the importance of this new passenger terminal to Prescott Valley.
“We are extremely pleased with the progress of the new passenger terminal,” said Dr. Robin Sobotta, Airport Director, City of Prescott. “Willmeng and Fann have done a great job keeping us on track for a March 2021 opening date.”
The boards are moved from the signing location to be secured at the top of the 18,000 SF passenger terminal for all to see. Photo by Small Giants
The project team includes Dibble Engineering, a civil firm specializing in public projects, including aviation; along with DWL Architects who have a long history of partnering with aviation clients; including, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, Tucson International Airport, John Glenn Columbus International Airport, Scottsdale Airport, LAX, Detroit Metro Airport, Sacramento International Airport, and Sky Harbor International Airport. The combination of experience and passion among these firms is demonstrated through the construction efforts at the new terminal for Prescott Regional Airport Ernest A. Love Field.