Oakland Airport Launches Restroom Revamp, Setting New Standards for Comfort and Hygiene

Published on February 11, 2025

Oakland International Airport (OAK) is enhancing the passenger experience with the completion of its first newly renovated restroom, marking a milestone in its multi-phase Terminal Restroom Renovation Program. This extensive upgrade prioritizes accessibility, hygiene, and modern amenities, ensuring a seamless experience for travelers.

A Modern, Traveler-Centric Restroom Design

The newly refreshed men’s restroom, located in Terminal 1 near Gate 3, introduces a sleek, contemporary layout with advanced features, including:

• Expanded ADA-compliant stalls with additional space for travelers with luggage, along with built-in shelving for personal belongings.
• Smart occupancy indicators with LED-lit stall doors, allowing passengers to locate available stalls effortlessly.
• A centralized handwashing area equipped with touchless faucets, automatic soap dispensers, and high-efficiency hand dryers for optimal hygiene.
• Energy-efficient LED lighting that enhances visibility while maintaining a relaxing ambiance.
• Noise-reducing materials integrated into the design for a more comfortable and tranquil environment.
• Improved wayfinding with clear signage and intuitive entryways, making the restroom more welcoming and easy to navigate.

Enhancing Accessibility With Family-Friendly Features

The renovation program extends beyond a single restroom update, with Phase 1 bringing additional improvements:

• A newly renovated women’s restroom at Gate 4, offering improved accessibility and modern amenities.
• Conversion of the men’s restroom at Gate 7 into private family restrooms and a lactation suite, catering to the needs of traveling families and nursing mothers.

These upgrades reflect OAK’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that every traveler—regardless of age or mobility—can navigate the airport with greater ease and comfort.

Investing in the Future of OAK’s Passenger Experience

This first phase of renovations represents a $17 million investment, with $10 million in funding secured through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s 2024 Airport Terminal Program, administered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The project is spearheaded by HNTB Corporation as the architect and Webcor Construction as the primary builder.

Looking ahead, OAK will announce details about Phase 2 of the renovation program in Fall 2025, building on the momentum of these enhancements.

Beyond Restrooms: Broader Airport Upgrades in Progress

The restroom upgrades are part of a larger modernization effort at Oakland International Airport. Other improvements underway include:

• A revamped dining and retail experience, with new restaurants and storefronts in development.
• Upgraded check-in counters in Terminal 1, streamlining the check-in process for efficiency.

With these enhancements, OAK is redefining its passenger experience, ensuring that travelers enjoy a more modern, efficient, and welcoming airport environment from arrival to departure.