St. Louis Lambert International Airport

Lambert-St. Louis International Airport marked the one-year anniversary of a devastating tornado strike by thanking dozens of organizations and businesses that helped in its recovery since the April 22, 2011 storm. More than 70 companies, most of them local, have made major contributions to the Airport's storm recovery which includes the biggest milestone, the reopening of the C Concourse just three weeks ago. Airport Director Rhonda Hamm-Niebruegge and other community leaders recognized the role of all those who have helped Lambert at an tornado anniversary event on April 20.

"Initial estimates for the C Concourse repairs were well over a year," said Director Rhonda Hamm-Niebruegge. "We streamlined every possible process and with support from our airport partners and dozens of contractors, we got it done sooner. We appreciate the support of our passengers and customers who have shown their patience as we dealt with the major challenges of rebuilding the concourse and repairing the damage across the airport complex."

The Airport estimates the total cost of the tornado will be $20-25 million, which is being covered by insurance. As of April 1, the Airport has let approximately $19 million in storm related contracts. Some of the biggest projects were the replacement of 300 windows in the Airport's historic Terminal 1, 250 windows in the C Concourse and a new roof for the C Concourse.  Some smaller storm related projects are still pending and will be completed later in the year. 

The tornado strike resulted in only a few minor injuries. Airport employees, St. Louis City and County workers along with teams of contractors rushed in to respond to the emergency the night of April 22, 2011.  Within hours, crews were clearing debris and tackling the massive job of sealing the damaged roof and window areas to prevent further weather damage. The Airport was able to reopen in just 24 hours. All airlines were fully operational after three days. During the last year, the Airport has operated temporary gates and concessions in other concourses while the C Concourse was being restored. 

"Now, one year later, the Airport - and especially its C Concourse - is better than ever," said St. Louis City Mayor Francis G. Slay. "I am grateful to the many members of the Airport's staff and construction crews for their quick and quality work. This Airport is not only a welcoming front door for our City's visitors, but is also a testament to the resilient spirit of our workers and residents."

Lambert estimates it lost an estimated $2 million in airline landing fees, parking fees, concession revenue and terminal rental rates since the tornado. Those business interruption costs will also be covered by insurance as part of the total cost of the tornado damage. 

 

Lambert Airport

City of St. Louis