New Customs Building at Boise Airport Great News for Idaho Businesses

2/11/2011
Boise, ID: With the opening of their new building at the east end of the Boise Airport campus, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Field Operations Officers are now able to process General Aviation International arrivals within a fully enclosed and updated facility. The new facility is the first general aviation CBP facility in the nation built to meet the latest design standards. Last year, CBP performed inspections on more than 400 private, cargo, and corporate general aviation flights at Boise, and on dozens of charter and military aircraft.

In moving from the 600 sq ft trailer that housed customs for 12+ years, the new 5,040 sq ft building has an occupancy rating of 107 people, a processing capacity of 35 passengers per hour and was designed to be expanded, effectively doubling the processing capacity to meet future growth of both passenger and freight.

"As exports increase in importance to Idaho's economy, our ability to process shipments though international customs becomes an even more vital component for economic growth,” said Mayor David Bieter. “This improved facility is another tool that Boise Airport can use to encourage the free flow of commerce and allow Idaho products to reach their markets around the globe."

“As the Airport strives to meet is mission goal of providing for the current and future air transportation needs of the Boise Airport Market, we recognize the need to continue developing critical infrastructure and services, noted Airport Director Richard McConnell. “One such service is that of Customs and Border Patrol at the airport.”

The building was constructed at a total cost $1,381,805; 63% of the project cost was funded through federal grants and the remainder paid with Airport Enterprise funds. Federal grants for custom facilities are available to cover only public areas. The private offices are not eligible for federal funding.

Prior to the new facility’s completion, international flight arrivals were processed on the airport tarmac. International travelers and their aircraft were exposed to weather and a lack of restrooms, CBP staff can now handle a greater range of inspections, offer public restrooms, and improved security measures with added search and interview rooms and a secure holding area.

In addition to international charter passenger, the new facility will provide increased functionality for the significant international trade import and export that runs through Boise Airport. Companies such as Micron, Hewlett-Packard, Agri-Beef and J.R. Simplot Company have a growing need for efficient export customs service to serve international markets and also require import of raw materials for manufacturing. The new facility provides increased freight capabilities for both importing and exporting, which is anticipated to have a positive economic development impact on local businesses.

Designed in partnership by HNTB and CSHQA, the contractors on the project include King Excavation, Tri-State Electric, Advanced Heating, Inselman Plumbing, TV Fire Protection, and Hawk Eye Builders.

News tag(s): Business International Technology Boise Project_60