As the North Central West Virginia Airport continues planning for a new multi-million dollar terminal, hundreds of thousands of dollars are soon to be invested in the existing terminal. Last week, approval was given permission to bring to Bridgeport one of the most advanced pieces of security equipment available.

 

The Benedum Airport Authority, the airport’s governing body, gave its blessing to acquire an Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) machine. The cost of the machine, according to NCWV Airport Deputy Director Shawn Long, is around $400,000.

 

“There’s one with our name on it,” NCWV Airport Director Rick Rock said.

 

Long said the $400,000 piece of equipment will be paid for by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Long said the airport will be tasked with coming up with the covering existing terminal modifications to house the machine as well as any layout changes to move the machine whenever the new terminal comes on line.

 

The existing baggage room isn’t the proper size. The equipment requires a 20-foot straight piece of conveyor. That will lead to the need for the modifications, which is a “bump-out” from the existing bag room.

 

So why not wait for the new terminal is done and save money on modifications?

 

“If we don’t take it now, we may not get another opportunity. It will certainly make us more efficient. Instead of having to scan every bag individually the machine basically does that for us,” said Rock.

 

After the meeting last week, Rock said “If we don’t’ make the commitment now, someone will jump past us.” He said this wasn’t a permanent offer.

 

Rock said the fact TSA asked for the machine the NCWV Airport hoped to receive and the fact the TSA will pay for it the scanning device is another positive sign for Bridgeport and the region.

 

“These machines are typically reserved for larger airports in urban markets. This offer is based on the growth we’ve had over the last few years and our TSA officials have identified this airport as one that they believe should have one,” said Rock.

 

Rock said it was as simple as getting the NCWV Airport’s name on the list. From there, it was a matter of getting selected based on growth and the local TSA’s recommendation.

 

Rock said it benefits the airport’s security apparatus tremendously. He said a lot of items checked by hand by the TSA agents will be handled efficiently with the AIT machine.

 

“The AIT detects for things such as explosives and what not. For instance, if there’s any type of explosive residue on a bag going through this machine it will be detected, red flagged and go under further inspections,” said Rock. “That’s a huge positive for security and it’s a positive from the convenience of our passengers as this will reduce the turnaround time and loading time of checked baggage.”

 

Editor's Note: Top photo shows Authority President Ron Watson, left, and Bridgpeort Mayor and Authority member Andy Lang at last week's meeting. Below, Shawn Long, back shown far left, makes a presentation during the meeting.