Eppley Airfield Ride App Pickup Area

Omaha Airport Authority engaged Walker Consultants to provide a review, analysis, and design of a new pickup location for Ride Apps (such as Uber and Lyft) at Omaha Eppley Airfield (OMA). Using proprietary design models, Walker designed a space to efficiently accommodate peak demand times and ensure that customers have a safe and comfortable waiting experience.

The Airport Authority wanted to understand the scale and dynamics of current and future Ride App use. It also wanted to study moving pickup and drop-offs from the terminal curb to an existing parking structure to reduce congestion and improve safety and the customer experience.

The Authority had limited data on Ride App use that Walker built a model from to estimate the average number of daily pickups and drop-offs, as well as the peak demand times. The model also forecasted future Ride App demand based on market conditions.

Walker crafted a functional design for a pickup area to fit within the airport’s existing south garage, taking into account structural elements, revenue controls, and vehicle and pedestrian flow. The design also considered passenger waiting accommodations, airport employee areas, and met Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. Walker then prepared construction documents and technical specifications and provided construction administration.

Eppley Airfield’s new, safe, and efficient Ride App pickup location is right-sized to handle car and pedestrian volumes. It reduces congestion at the terminal curb, which improves overall vehicle traffic flow throughout the airport and creates a safer and more orderly environment. In addition, the Airport Authority now has a more robust data analytics system to help manage Ride Apps.