Gerald R Ford International Airport, Airport Operations Center

The Airport Operations Center (AOC) is a new 12,000-sf facility that serves as the Primary Communications Center (PCC) and Emergency Operations Center (EOC) for the Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Following an extensive and highly collaborative evaluation of the airport’s public safety needs with stakeholders, the project team implemented a phased approach that included a new Airport Operations Center (AOC) on the east end of the campus. The project consolidates Communications and Emergency Operations services into a new state-of-the-art facility, including significant upgrades to the airport’s technology and MEP infrastructure. As an emergency response facility, the new Airport Operations Center was constructed in compliance with ICC 500 storm shelter requirements including enhanced wind loads, missile-impact ratings, and redundant infrastructure. The program includes a Primary Communications Center, Emergency Operations Center, Data Center, Offices, Lockers, and Break Rooms Space. The next phase of development will provide a new Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fire- Fighting Facility (ARFF) The project budget was carefully developed and comprehensive to include the complexity of systems integration of multiple technology vendors. The AOC is a critical step in the airport’s long-term masterplan development strategy, allowing for development in other parts of the airport campus. The AOC is a model of excellence in airport operations architecture, enhancing the safety and efficiency of the airport and the region.