Welcome to the future of travel in Central Oregon. Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM) is growing to meet the needs of our rapidly expanding region, while proudly preserving the charm that makes air travel through RDM so special. With more gates, added jet bridges and expanded terminal space, we’re not just growing, we’re upgrading your journey. It’s all part of our commitment to be fast, friendly and clean – and now, even better than ever.
To explore more of what’s ahead, follow the links below and view design renderings, stay updated on construction impacts, learn about improved accessibility features, enhanced customer experience and new food and retail options coming to RDM.
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM) has long served as a vital transportation hub for Central Oregon, connecting the region to major cities across the West and beyond. As Central Oregon has grown, so has the demand for air travel. Over the past decade, RDM has seen passenger growth more than double, placing significant pressure on the existing terminal originally expanded in 2008 and designed for a much smaller volume of traffic.
In response to the increased demand an in line with the 2018 Airport Master Plan, RDM developed the 2021 Terminal Area Concept Plan – a strategic roadmap created in collaboration with aviation experts, stakeholder groups and community partners. This plan identified key improvements needed to meet future passenger demand, improve operational efficiency, support accessibility, and enhance overall traveler experience.
The current terminal expansion is the first major step to bringing that vision to life. This transformative project will add more than 80,000 square feet of new space, including seven new jet bridges, expanded waiting areas, over 6,000 square feet of new concessions, and more than double the terminal passenger seating. Travelers will also benefit from enhanced accessibility, a state-of-the art companion care restroom, new restrooms, a post-security service animal relief area, and an advanced public address system for clearer communication.
Sustainability is an important focus of the expansion with features like additional solar panels, energy efficient HVAC systems, and a design targeting LEED Silver certification. A newly expanded public art program will also showcase the creativity and culture of Central Oregon throughout the terminal.
The expansion project represents more than just a terminal upgrade; it’s an investment in the future of Central Oregon travel and economic development. Through thoughtful design and a focus on customer care, RDM continues to grow with the community. While staying true to its values: Fast, Friendly and Clean.
PASSENGER IMPACTS
RDM is growing to serve you better—and that means your travel journey will look a little different during construction. While we work to build a bigger, more comfortable, and more accessible terminal, here’s what you can expect as you travel through the airport. Don’t worry—we’ll be here to help guide you every step of the way.
Jan – Feb 2026: Wider Stairway Installation
Just past the TSA checkpoint in the recomposure area, construction walls will be erected to allow installation of a new, wider stairway connecting the ground floor to the first floor. This upgrade will improve passenger flow and accessibility.
Feb – Aug 2026: Elevator Enhancements
Once the new stairway is complete and operational, the old stairway will be demolished and a second elevator will be installed to provide additional vertical access. Once this new elevator is operational, the original elevator will undergo a full refurbishment, ensuring both elevators meet modern standards for convenience and reliability. During elevator installation, the first and second floors will experience temporary changes. The path to and from the existing elevator will narrow, and the entry to the second floor men’s restroom will be adjusted. Please follow posted signage for directions during this phase.
Sept 2026 – May 2027
To accommodate construction, the northmost portion of the hold room will be closed off. This work will reconfigure the path to baggage claim. When complete, passengers will benefit from the removal of the rotating doors and the installation of a new double-door system, eventually allowing those deplaning to re-enter the hold room once the expansion project is complete.
June 2027
The new double-door system will open, providing a more efficient exit from the concourse to baggage claim. Full access back into the hold room will be available upon project completion in November 2027.
Nov 2027: Completion – A Glimpse of the Future
This transformative project will add more than 80,000 square feet of new space, including:
- Seven new jet bridges for faster boarding and deplaning.
- Expanded waiting areas and over 6,000 square feet of new concessions.
- More than double the terminal passenger seating for improved comfort.
- Enhanced accessibility with modernized pathways and dual elevators.
- A state-of-the-art companion care restroom, additional new restrooms, and a post-security service animal relief area.
- An advanced public address system for clearer communication throughout the terminal.
Take a glimpse into the future—explore the virtual rendering of the expanded terminal and see what’s ahead beyond these hold room updates.
BENEFITS
Redmond Municipal Airport’s terminal expansion is so much more than added space – it’s a reimagined travel experience. This transformative project brings exciting new amenities, improved accessibility for all travelers and a deepened commitment to environmental sustainability. It also delivers meaningful economic benefits for the region. Here’s how the expanded terminal is designed with you, and Central Oregon’s future, in mind.
Enhanced Comfort & Convenience
- More than 80,000 additional square feet of new space.
- 71% added waiting room space.
- More than double the number of seats with comfy lounge seats, new beam seating and modern high-top workstations both with charging capability.
- Over 6,000 square feet of new concession space for food and retail.
- Over 25 additional restroom stalls.
Accessibility for All
- 7 new jet bridges.
- Advanced public address system with superior speech intelligibility.
- Improved wayfinding signage.
- Wider walkways and concourses.
- An additional elevator and new escalator.
- State-of-the-art companion restroom.
- New post-security service animal relief area.
Sustainability for Tomorrow
- Environmentally sustainable lighting, HVAC, building controls.
- Targeting LEED Silver Certification.
Supporting Central Oregon’s Economy
The Redmond Municipal Airport terminal expansion isn’t just about adding gates and square footage – it’s an investment in the economic growth and long-term vitality of our region. This project supports hundreds of local jobs, drives tourism and business travel, and strengthens the infrastructure Central Oregon needs to thrive funded by the FAA, grants, airlines, and airport users — NOT local taxpayers.
- Increased tourism and visitor spending with higher passenger capacity.
- 383 full-time constructions jobs created with a local economic impact of $65 million annually during the construction phase.
- 207 new permanent jobs created including positions with the airlines, TSA, concessionaires, rental car agencies and airport staff with a local economic impact of $39 million annually.
- With over 6,000 feet of new food, beverage and retail space, the expanded terminal offers exciting opportunities for concessionaires to serve the growing and diverse passenger base.
- RDM’s new art program will highlight the cultural richness of our region through thoughtfully curated public art installations. This initiative not only enhances the passenger experience but also provides paid opportunities for local and regional artists to showcase their work to thousands of travelers each day.
VIRTUAL TOUR
At Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM) the interior design of the terminal expansion celebrates the Central Oregon high desert landscape. Muted, natural warm colors inspired by the local flora, Deschutes River and Smith Rock provide a distinct sense of place. Neutral undertones, natural textures, and dark molded charcoal accents are carried through in the railings, millwork, and aluminum curtainwall. Ceilings in the expanded hold room comprise of Douglas Fir timber panels and glue-laminated beams. Dark ceiling channels run the length of the expanded terminal, creating a cohesive and integrated ceiling design that reduces interior clutter and organizes system routing.
Rich texture and monochromatic patterns mimic the landscape of Central Oregon to provide a timeless and calm interior utilizing materials that will deepen and patina with age. White Oak millwork, warm quartzite countertops and darkened steel accents identify gate locations and seating areas. Furniture coordinated with the millwork will provide rich, dark hues, and durable textures. The intentional and detailed design execution improves the well-being of passengers and airline employees by reducing heat gain, mitigating glare, and maximizing exterior views with extensive glazing throughout the expanded terminal.
The overall design strikes a balance between modern functionality and the warm, inviting charm that defines the RDM experience. Join us in early 2028 to experience your newly upgraded adventure at RDM!
CONSTRUCTION CAM
IMPROVED ACCESSIBILITY
At Redmond Municipal Airport we believe every travel should be welcoming and comfortable for everyone. The terminal expansion is designed with accessibility as a top priority. We’re enhancing ease of movement, comfort, and convenience for all travelers including those with disabilities, limited mobility, and sensory sensitivities. The expanded facility includes:
- Seven new jet bridges for smoother aircraft access.
- Wider walkways and concourses for improved mobility and less crowding.
- An additional elevator and new escalator to provide easier access the second floor.
- Expanded ADA-compliant restrooms with accessible handrails, specific family and companion care restrooms.
- Improved wayfinding signage with clear visuals.
- Updated public address system for clearer announcements throughout the terminal.
- Design focused on ease of movement to support all travelers.
NEW FOOD & RETAIL OPTIONS
Something Tasty is Taking Off at RDM
Opportunities for Concessionaires
We’re opening the door for innovative customer-focused businesses to become part of the RDM experience. If you’re a food and beverage or retail operator with a passion for service with a Central Oregon flare, we want to hear from you.
Request for Proposals (RFP) – Due March 31, 2026, at 2:00 PM
NON-EXCLUSIVE FOOD, BEVERAGE, RETAIL, AND VENDING CONCESSIONS
The City of Redmond (“City”) is seeking proposals (“Proposals”) from highly qualified individuals, corporations, partnerships, and other business entities (“Proposers”) for the development, management, and operation of food, beverage, and retail concessions program (“Concessions Program”) package(s) at the Redmond Municipal Airport (“Airport”) terminal building (“Terminal”) at 2522 Jesse Butler Circle, Redmond, Oregon 97756, as described in this Request for Proposals (“RFP”). This RFP may be viewed at the Airport, 2522 SE Jesse Butler Circle, Suite No. 17, Redmond, Oregon 97756 and at https://bidlocker.us/a/redmondoregon/BidLocker.
PUBLIC ART
Redmond Municipal Airport is excited to announce a Call for Artists for the RDM Public Art Program as part of our Terminal Expansion Project. This initiative will integrate six site-specific artworks into the secure side of the terminal, creating a welcoming and inspiring environment that reflects the spirit of Central Oregon.
Our mission is to curate an immersive art experience that celebrates the region’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spirit of exploration. We invite artists to submit proposals that align with one or more of our curatorial themes:
Stories of the Land – Honoring Indigenous heritage, ranching traditions, and contemporary community life.
Currents of Connection – Forces that move through Central Oregon: rivers, wind, wildlife, and human relationships.
Rhythms of the Wild – The natural tempo of the landscape: seasonal shifts, volcanic geology, and wildlife patterns.
Budget: $10K–$150K per commission
Deadline: February 20, 2026
Apply via CafeArt: Application link coming January 9, 2026
Proposals will be reviewed by the RDM Art Selection Panel, a diverse group of community members, art professionals, tribal representatives, and airport stakeholders. The panel evaluates creativity, connection to Central Oregon, and integration with the terminal design.
For more information visit the links below