A Comparative: Denver and Austin-Bergstrom International Airports ...

Austin-Bergstrom is a model for sustainable development. Energy efficiency, improved air
and water quality, water conservation, and the efficient use of resources are examples of
the Austin’s innovative approach to sustainability. The terminal building and its central
heating and cooling systems are among the most reliable and energy efficient type
available. With the addition of thermal storage, the plant will provide a peak electrical
reduction in excess of 1400 kW. This equates to a 48% reduction in peak demand.
The reuse and recycling of the previous structures of the Bergstrom Air Force Base
infrastructure and facilities represented a highly innovative use of scarce resources.
Activities such as the relocation of military housing, reuse of fuel tanks, recycling of
concrete and the salvage of building components conserved resources and reduced waste
streams.
Art
DEN’s Public Art Program features 26 site-specific works created by 39 artists and includes
sculptures, murals and installations. The pieces are located in the landscape, the
architecture of Jeppesen Terminal and concourses, and in the train tunnels and
communication systems. Along with the permanent art collection, the airport has an
exhibition program that includes several venues with changing exhibits. A theme is
developed for each exhibit from an artistic point of view and interpretation. The program
collaborates with museums, cultural institutions and arts organizations to present the
highest quality two- and three-dimensional work.
Through 11 permanent art fixtures, the art in the Barbara Jordan Terminal of Austin-
Bergstrom International Airport contributes to a sense of arrival into Austin by
communicating numerous literal and symbolic references to the region's geography,
landmarks, history, diverse cultures, and the spirit of the people.
As part of the Austin Public Art Program, the Austin airport frequently features live local
music to entertain travelers. The music is usually performed on weekday afternoons. The
main stage is near Ray Benson's Roadhouse (this is in the center of the terminal on the
concourse level). Music is performed at other smaller stages throughout the week, as well.
Awards
In 2012, for the sixth consecutive year, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport was highly
ranked for customer service. Austin’s airport ranked fourth among airports in North
America, regardless of size, by Airport Council International’s (ACI) 2011 Airport Service
Quality (ASQ) passenger survey. In addition, Travel + Leisure magazine's July 2010 issue
rated Austin-Bergstrom International Airport #9 on its best airports list.
For seven straight years – between 2005 and 2011 – Denver International was honored as
the Best Airport in North America by Business Traveler Magazine. DEN also ranked second
in overall customer satisfaction by J.D. Power & Associates in 2010.
For more information, visit www.flydenver.com and www.ci.austin.tx.us/austinairport/.
Sources: Denver International Airport statistics; Denver International Airport Web site;
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Web site; Air Transport Intelligence
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