Connecticut’s Bradley International Airport is expected to open its new Ground Transportation Center in mid-July.

After five years of planning and construction, the new $210-million facility will provide improved access to rental cars, more parking, and future options for public transit, according to a press release by the Connecticut Airport Authority.

“The Ground Transportation Center will dramatically improve the passenger experience at Bradley International Airport for both arrivals and departures,” said Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont. “Those of us who live in Connecticut know how convenient it is to fly in and out of Bradley. It was one of our best-kept secrets, but now that secret is out. This new facility, built without the use of taxpayer funds, is key to Bradley’s position as an essential economic driver for our state and is already helping to bring new airlines and destinations that benefit our residents and businesses.”

“Today, we celebrate a significant milestone in Bradley International Airport’s history,” said Tony Sheridan, Connecticut Airport Authority’s Board of Directors chair. “Despite the setbacks of the COVID-19 pandemic, the construction of the airport’s new Ground Transportation Center has been achieved on time and on budget. Without a doubt, this has been a massive undertaking, and we extend our gratitude to all our partners on the successful completion of this major passenger enhancement.”

Key elements of the new Ground Transportation Center include:

• Rental Car Services: The rental car operations for nine brands will be consolidated under one roof in this facility, including vehicle pick-up and drop-off, car storage, cleaning, and fueling. Passenger access is available within a short walking distance from the main terminal. Passengers will no longer need to use a shuttle to access their rental cars.

• Additional Public Parking: The facility will add 830 new public parking spots, increasing the airport’s parking availability by 10%. More than half of those spaces will offer covered parking, and the remainder will be surface parking spots next to the facility.

• Improved Access to Public Transportation: In addition to housing charter bus traffic, the facility will also include a dedicated area that will be used to receive buses connecting the airport to the CTRail line, as well as regional bus services.

With the environment in mind, the opening of the facility will house more than 50 electric vehicle charging stations. Additionally, rental car companies will utilize environmentally friendly substances and will recycle and filter water during car washes.

“With the opening of the Ground Transportation Center, we have made a significant investment in the passenger experience at Bradley International Airport,” said Kevin A. Dillon, executive director of the Connecticut Airport Authority. “In addition to transforming the airport footprint, the facility will streamline operations, save time for passengers, improve access to public transportation, while also eliminating traffic congestion and easing access to our arrivals and departures levels.”