Oakland Airport completes first phase of Terminal 1 restroom renovations enhancing accessibility and passenger experience

Credit: Port of Oakland

Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK) has announced the completion of Phase 1 of its Terminal Restroom Renovation Program, marking a key milestone in its multi-year initiative to improve passenger experience with modern, comfortable, and accessible facilities.

“We celebrate the completion of the first phase of our restroom renovation program,” said Port of Oakland Director of Aviation Craig Simon. “We hope that passengers travelling through OAK’s Terminal 1 will enjoy the significant upgrades that have been made in our restroom facilities. Our team is excited to continue this important work in the program’s next phases.”

Phase 1 focused on three major restroom locations in Terminal 1. At Gate 3, the men’s restroom was fully modernised with spacious ADA-compliant stalls, LED occupancy indicators, centralised hands-free sinks, and upgraded finishes. Gate 4’s women’s restroom, which had been closed since 2011, was restored and expanded to provide greater convenience immediately post-security and near concessions. At Gate 7, an existing men’s restroom was converted into four all-gender and family restrooms, alongside OAK’s first dedicated lactation suite, advancing the airport’s family-friendly amenities.

Each location features hospitality-inspired design elements that align with OAK’s vision of a welcoming passenger environment. Spacious stalls provide ample room for luggage and include shelves for personal items. LED-lit stall doors allow travellers to quickly identify availability. Centralised sink areas feature hands-free faucets, soap dispensers, hand dryers, and paper towels. Energy-efficient LED lighting creates a bright yet calming atmosphere, complemented by high-quality finishes and sound-absorbing materials to reduce noise. Customised entryways and signage ensure a more intuitive and visually appealing experience. The new lactation suite offers a calm, private space with comfortable seating and modern finishes for nursing parents and caregivers.

Phase 1 had a total capital investment of $17 million, partly supported by a $10 million Federal Aviation Administration Airport Terminal Program grant awarded in 2024 under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. HNTB Corporation served as the architect, with Webcor Construction LP as the prime builder.

Following this successful completion, OAK plans to start Phase 2 in early 2026, which will renovate additional restrooms across Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. This next phase will also include a lactation suite and a universal companion care room in Terminal 2. The renovations reflect OAK’s ongoing commitment to creating accessible, modern, and welcoming facilities that enhance the travel experience for all passengers.

Photos of Phase 1 completed restrooms are available here.

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