February 14, 2018

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

AZA Incorporates New Automated Exit Lane Technology – a First of its Kind in the Southwest

PHOENIX –– The expansion plans of Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) focus on transforming the passenger experience and improving operational efficiency. The new design incorporates technology to improve passenger flow and reduce congestion to the existing exit lanes, a priority for the airport in response to continued growth.

“Expanding our TSA Security Screening Checkpoint and adding a new Fully-Automated Exit Lane enables us to better serve the growing number of air travelers choosing Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport”, said Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority Executive Director/CEO J. Brian O’Neill, A.A.E. “These projects provide enhanced security, increased efficiency and a better overall passenger experience.”

With DWL Architects’ expertise and extensive knowledge of airport operations, AZA and DWL Architects collaborated with DPR Construction and dormakaba to execute a workable plan. Having previously completed a study on exit lane technology, DWL Architects prepared a solution to meet the airports requirements.

“As we assessed the different needs with AZA, we knew larger security improvements were necessary to accommodate the demands of today’s airport. In addition to the dormakaba automated exit lane, the checkpoint has also been expanded from four to five lanes, with the space to accommodate a sixth lane.” said Sandra Kukla, executive vice president of DWL Architects. “AZA is paving the way for the region by integrating this new exit lane technology and we couldn’t be more excited to be a part of it.”

For improved passenger efficiency, DWL Architects created a “gateway” for the new exit lane. The retrofit from a serpentine hallway to an unmanned exit lane required that the exit lane run perpendicular to current traffic flow and necessitated creative way finding ideas to guide passengers through the portal.

The dormakaba Exit Lane Breach Control (ELBC) system was selected due to its modularity and “smart technology” interface which optimizes airport operations. Replacing guards with technology not only eliminated the possibility of human error, it has proven to offer more control, airside protection against security breaches and substantial cost savings without compromising passenger safety. “This installation at AZA incorporates a two lane, three-door unit with new sensors and object detection,” said Bill Seibert, Business Development Manager at dormakaba. “It is the first of its kind to be installed in the Southwestern United States.”

As one of Arizona’s premier technical builders, DPR Construction’s extensive knowledge working on TSA checkpoints, and occupied spaces paved the way for seamless execution on this project. To ensure a superior experience and minimal disruption for passengers and staff, the team devised a strategic phasing plan that underscored the safety of the travelling public and ease of traffic flow. This resulted in completing the project an entire month ahead of schedule, just in time for the Valley’s influx of flights due to Spring Training season in March.

“Our real strength on this project was in the phasing plan that put the passenger, staff and the operation of the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport first, ultimately making it ‘just plane easy’ for our client,” said Jim Lauer of DPR Construction. “We’re thrilled to re-define and contribute to PMGAA’s growing presence in the Valley and its role in supporting the region’s economy while providing a streamlined traveling experience for residents and visitors alike.”

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About Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport: Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is owned and operated by the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority (PMGAA). PMGAA consists of representation from Mesa, Gilbert, Queen Creek, Gila River Indian Community, Phoenix, and Apache Junction. Gateway Airport offers nonstop passenger service to 46 cities via Allegiant and WestJet Airlines and welcomes more than 1.3 million passengers each year. Corporate, military and general aviation customers are served by Gateway Aviation Services, a 24-hour full service FBO located just north of the passenger terminal.

About DWL Architects + Planners, Inc.: Founded in 1949, DWL Architects + Planners, Inc. has established itself as a local leader in aviation design. Playing the leading role in the development of several aviation projects across the state, DWL Architects’ aviation team focuses on terminal expansions, renovations, concourses, concessions, checkpoints and more. We bring expertise from a range of industries like aviation, hospitality, civic, healthcare and higher education. Among the most dynamic and respected locally owned architecture firms in the Southwest, DWL Architects has a legacy of connecting people with places through design. Further information at www.dwlarchitects.com.

About dormakaba: dormakaba is one of the top three companies in the global market for access and security solutions. With strong brands such as Dorma and Kaba in our portfolio, we are a single source for products, solutions, and services related to doors and secure access to buildings and rooms.  With around 16,000 employees and numerous cooperation partners, we are active in over 130 countries. dormakaba is headquartered in Rümlang (Zurich/Switzerland) and generates an annual turnover of over CHF 2 billion. SIX Swiss Exchange: DOKA (formerly: KABN / KABNE) Further information at www.dormakaba.us.

 About DPR: DPR Construction is a unique technical builder with a passion for results. Ranked in the top 50 general contractors in the country since 1997, we are a national commercial contractor and construction manager that has grown with our customers by delivering measurably more value. Whether a multi-million-dollar technical facility or a conference room renovation, we execute every project with relentless accountability. We listen to your goals. We develop strategies based on your business. We track our performance. We do everything we can to earn your trust and build great lasting relationships.

AZA Automated Exit Lane – Landside