"Curbside access restricted at Florida airport"

Sunday, February 9, 2003

Curbside access restricted at airport
The Tallahassee (FL) Democrat


Restrictions on curbside access at Tallahassee Regional Airport began
Saturday night as part of a nationwide response to the heightened terrorism
alert announced Friday.

The directive from the U.S. Transportation Security Administration was
issued to airports nationwide. The local airport made the change at 7:45
p.m.

Effective immediately, citizens dropping off or picking up travelers will be
diverted to the long- and short-term lots.

"We know this will be a significant inconvenience for our customers, but we
must comply with the Transportation Security Administration," Jim Durwin,
acting superintendent of airport operations, said in a statement.

He suggested that travelers allow themselves five to 10 minutes extra time.

Curbside check-in may resume in a few weeks.

City spokesperson Halle Calabrese said the arrangement is similar to what
was in place for several months after the 9-11 terrorist attacks.

"It's pretty much reverting back to the same procedures as before," she
said.

"The basic message to people right now is 'pack light' because there's a
good chance they'll be carrying their own luggage inside," she said.

There are usually two SkyCap employees working, but priority for helping
with baggage will be given to those with physical limitations.

Signs have been placed at the entrances to both lots to identify SkyCap
locations. SkyCaps will be stationed in both lots to assist travelers. The
SkyCaps will have wheelchairs for those who require them.

Rental cars can be found in the same location, but the airport has set up an
alternate entrance and exit on Capital Circle Southwest.

A vehicle height restriction of 6 feet, 6 inches is in effect in the
short-term parking lot. If a vehicle exceeds that height it will be directed
to the long-term parking lot. The first 20 minutes in both lots are free,
and Durwin said that time limit may be extended soon.

"We greatly appreciate the patience of the traveling public with the changes
required to enhance security," Durwin said. "I also commend the airport's
staff for working swiftly to comply with the directive."

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