Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (MSCAA) today announced the official reopening of its Pedestrian B Tunnel at Frederick W. Smith International Airport (MEM), successfully completing a critical phase of the airport’s ongoing Terminal Modernization and Seismic Program (TMSP). Starting Wednesday, September 2, travelers can once again use the tunnel for direct access.
The next phase of our Terminal Modernization project is moving ahead of schedule. Effective October 21, 2025, the Pedestrian Tunnel between Terminal B and the Pedestrian Plaza is closed until Spring 2026.
In the most visible show of terminal modernization yet, demolition of the upper outer drive began in mid-September to allow for construction of a new upper commercial drive. As the old drive started to come down, the new, lower-level commercial lane opened inside the three story garage to accommodate taxis, limos, ride-app users, and shuttles. Bright orange signage along every path and corridor help to direct passengers to the new commercial vehicle pick-up and drop-off lane.
Starting Tuesday, September 9, ride app operations will be moved to Memphis International Airport’s arrivals level, outside the C baggage claim area. The move is related to construction for Memphis International Airport’s Terminal Modernization and Seismic Program (TMSP) and the opening of a new commercial lane on the arrivals level.
Demolition of Concourse A has begun. The space will be cleared to prepare several key future construction sites as part of the Terminal Modernization and Seismic Project (TMSP).
Construction for Memphis International Airport’s Terminal Modernization and Seismic Program (TMSP) project affecting the upper inner departures lane has been completed and the B crosswalk was reopened on Friday, June 20.
The new administration building design continues to come into focus in these new renderings released by MSCAA design partner, Alliiance. Upgraded finishes highlight the modern interiors that will provide visitors and employees with a stunning, light-filled space for both working and meeting.
As part of the TMSP program’s outer commercial drive upgrade, the transit tunnel underneath the drive must be filled in to meet seismic standards. Progress continues on the filling and expected to be completed by August.
Ongoing construction for Memphis International Airport’s Terminal Modernization and Seismic Program (TMSP) project will affect pedestrian crosswalk access and departure level entrances beginning Wednesday, June 4. Starting June 4, pedestrians entering the airport from the departures/ticketing level will need to utilize the crosswalks at the A and C terminals to enter the terminal.
The long-dormant transit tunnel that lies two levels beneath the outer commercial drive will soon seal a piece of MEM history.
