Chicago Construction News staff writer
Mayor Brandon Johnson and the City of Chicago provided the public with a first glimpse of The New Concourse D at O’Hare International Airport, unveiling a two-minute video animation during remarks at the City Club of Chicago.
“O’Hare has long been one of Chicago’s great economic engines, and The New Concourse D represents the next great transformation for our city,” Johnson said. “This new gateway will strengthen global connections, create thousands of jobs, and showcase Chicago’s architectural excellence to travelers from around the world.”
The animation highlights the concourse rising just south of Concourse C and is part of ORDNext, the City’s $8 billion program to reimagine O’Hare’s core terminals. ORDNext aims to better connect travelers, accommodate future growth, and enhance the passenger experience.
Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, in collaboration with Ross Barney Architects, Juan Gabrel Moreno Architects, and Arup, the concourse will feature 19 new flexible gates capable of serving either two narrow-body or one wide-body aircraft, increasing capacity while optimizing gate utilization.
“Concourse D introduces a new experience rooted in the city’s architectural legacy,” said Chicago Department of Aviation Commissioner Michael McMurray. “A multi-level space will provide zones for resting, dining, shopping, and play, with skylights for a naturally lit environment. At the south end, lounge seating and landscaping frame expansive views of the airfield. We’re proud to bring this welcoming gateway to Chicago.”
“The design focuses on warm natural materials and sunny, open areas for passengers to enjoy while boarding or arriving home to Chicago,” said SOM Design Partner Scott Duncan.
Construction crews are actively driving caissons, hoisting cranes, and installing structural steel while the airport remains fully operational. Concourse D is scheduled for completion in late 2028.
“We are accomplishing ORDNext the Chicago way, with innovation and efficiency guiding all we do,” McMurray said. “We’ve had a strong start, and CDA remains focused on delivering this program on time and on budget. We appreciate the support of our airline partners, particularly United and American Airlines, for helping bring this vision to life.”
