Project – Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority

The Terminal Modernization and Seismic Program (TMSP) at the Memphis International Airport is a $700 million project that will modernize the main terminal, enhance seismic resilience, expand parking systems and provide upgraded amenities to meet the needs of the modern traveler. One aspect of the TMSP is the creation of a new Administration Building in the vicinity of Concourse A, which is being demolished.

ABES Contracting is working under Turner Construction as a civil/site/utility sub on the new Administration Building. The work that ABES self-performed included the demolition of the existing tarmac area (almost 2’ thick) to clear space for the Administration Building foundation. ABES crews installed gravel beneath the building slab and compacted the material in 1’ lifts to ensure adequate density and compaction. ABES also demolished an existing water line and jet fuel line as well as an 18’ stormwater manhole. As part of the stormwater manhole demolition, two large trench boxes were installed to allow workers to access the existing pipes and permanently plug them to ensure the abandoned lines no longer transport flow. Some of this work was not planned, so ABES worked closely with Turner to develop solutions quickly and troubleshoot the unexpected issues.

In addition to installing the gravel for the foundation of the building, ABES Contracting is also installing the sanitary sewer service and stormwater lines from the new building to the existing sewer lines. This work requires close coordination with the building subs to ensure the connection points line up and that the work is properly sequenced. A sub also worked under ABES to install both temporary and permanent AOA fencing.

As you can image, working at the airport on a large long-term project requires good communication and teamwork, which fits well with ABES’ “Big Three”: 1. Perform as a Team 2. Communicate Effectively 3. Exceed Client Expectations.