The Rhode Island Airport Corporation (RIAC) took another step forward with terminal modernizations as it opened the first of its newly renovated restrooms in the Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport (PVD) North Concourse. Newly renovated restrooms in the airport arrival area will re-open later in November, after which Phase II of the project will commence with renovations of the remaining airport restrooms. The fully federally funded restroom renovation project is providing needed replacements and upgrades in infrastructure while creating a new modern design for the restrooms in the 25-year-old terminal.

 Part of a multi-phase terminal renovation project, airport industry customer surveys, affirm that airport restrooms provide the all-important first and last impression of an airport, helping to shape airport approval and community perceptions.  Each restroom in the newly renovated PVD restrooms will feature freshly cut flowers at the sink area, and seasonal plantings displayed in large wall planters. Accent seasonal lighting and soft fragrances will also add to the overall calming atmosphere.  Photos of the completed restrooms can be found at https://tinyurl.com/PVD-Restroom.  

The completely redesigned restrooms are also intended to foster improved cleanliness with hygienic amenities and integrated HEPA filtration technology to keep travelers safer and healthier with special attention given to improving crowd flow during peak times for an easy in and out rest-stop experience. By the end of Phase II of the project, PVD will have a total of 150 toilet fixtures and 94 sinks, an increase from the previous 110 toilet fixtures and 55 sinks. The completed restrooms not only increase capacity within the restrooms but also add additional customer amenities including five new lactation rooms, featuring toddler play areas, and two additional family restrooms.   

The PVD restroom upgrades, which began in January, 2021, are the first step in an overall modernization of the terminal over the coming years, integrating modern, yet nature-inspired designs.  This modernization project was made possible thanks to an Airport Improvement Program grant secured by U.S. Senator Jack Reed, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Following the re-opening of baggage claim restrooms on November 22, 2021, Phase II of the renovation project will include the temporary closure of the restroom on the South Concourse, as well as the closure and renovation of an additional restroom on the North Concourse near Gate 14, as well as the closure and renovation of the Departures Level restroom near the security checkpoint near the airline ticket counters.  Signage throughout the airport will continue to redirect travelers to the open restrooms throughout the remainder of the project.  Architect for the project is Saccoccio & Associates of Cranston, RI and the contractor is E.W. Burman, Inc. of Warwick, RI.