By KWGS News
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kwgs/local-kwgs-922642.mp3
Tulsa, OK – A cell phone parking lot officially opened today at Tulsa International Airport in order to alleviate curbside congestion outside of the airport's baggage claim area. The cell phone lot, located just east of the Hilton Garden Inn Hotel, will provide 25 spaces for people to park their vehicles while waiting on arriving passengers and baggage. Once passengers arrive to Tulsa and collect their luggage, they can then call their waiting friend or family member to let them know they're at the curb and ready for pick up. There is no charge for using the lot, however vehicles cannot be left in the lot unattended.
In addition to providing year-round congestion relief to the arrivals roadway, the lot will be especially helpful as airport contractors begin roadway construction in that area. Airports Director, Jeff Mulder, said, "Airports across the country have utilized this concept to provide their customers with a convenient, no-cost option when picking up passengers. We're pleased to be able to provide this service to our customers and hope that it improves their airport experience." Construction on Airport Drive will continue through this fall.
Temporary signs have been placed along the airport's entrance road to direct drivers to the lot. Permanent signs will be installed later this month. A map of its location is available on the airport's website, www.tulsaairports.com. Drivers are reminded that they cannot leave their vehicle unattended in the lot and should park in the airport's hourly parking lot if they need to go into the terminal. The airport provides 30 minutes of free parking in the hourly lot.
The cell phone lot construction is a component of the overall airport roadway rehabilitation project. The project is funded through passenger facility charges.