Eastern Iowa Airport planning to install more security cameras in parking lot

Parking lot surveillance cameras are coming to The Eastern Iowa Airport as work progresses on the next phase of a $50 million terminal remodeling project.

The Cedar Rapids Airport Commission approved plans and specifications for the security cameras at its Sept. 28 meeting. Airport Director Marty Lenss said the cameras will provide additional security for travelers and visitors.

'The camera system will be tied into our overall security infrastructure for the airport,” Lenss said. 'It will give us good visibility for safety reasons.

'We will have a number of cameras installed this year before the snow flies. We're looking forward to providing a value-added service to our visitors.”

Lenss said video captured by the surveillance system could prove useful in the event of a fender bender in the parking lot.

'We might be able to aid an accident investigation,” he said. 'Our public safety officers will be able to view the parking lot in real time as well as review video after an incident occurs.”

Lenss said the airport has existing security cameras, primarily centered on the parking lot entrances and exit booths.

'This system will be much more robust,” he said. 'Cameras will be located throughout the majority of the parking lot.”

The surveillance camera system installation will occur while work progresses on the latest phase of the terminal modernization project.

Contractors have installed three skylights in the east wing of the terminal as well as new counters and offices for rental car providers. Temporary counters have been set up in the main lobby.

The next phase will focus on the west wing where airline ticket counters are located. Ticketing will move temporarily to counters in the lobby as three skylights are installed along with a new floor and a water feature that will tie into the floor design.

The four-year project will be completed without incurring new debt, increasing costs for tenants or passengers, or accepting city or county tax revenue.