Using Partnerships for Airport Infrastructure
On July 19-20, 2021, Andrée Blais and Jim Vorhis spoke during the 2021 P3 Airport Summit in San Diego, CA. The program brought together airport and industry leaders to discuss current challenges faced by airports nationwide and the role of alternative project delivery methods. The two-day program explored new trends and approaches to procurement, project delivery, finance, operations and life-cycle efficiencies affecting airports of all sizes.
On July 19, Andrée was a panelist during the session on “Top 10 Critical Issues When Procuring a P3.” This panel conducted a systematic review of the ten critical issues that must be addressed when procuring a Public-Private Partnership (P3): vision, political champions, communication, community, commitment, experience, funding, staff, time and access.
On July 20, Jim presented “Current Insurance Issues Faced by Airports.” During his presentation, Jim provided commentary on trends in the insurance market and issues that may arise. He discussed the development of claim handling and court rulings in COVID-19 and business interruption claims. Jim also spoke on the insurance markets more broadly to assist airports involved in P3 contracts through the changes in the insurance market.
Also on July 20, Andrée co-presented “The Difference Between Project Funding and Project Financing.” This session introduced fundamental financial topics related to P3s. The speakers reviewed how P3 financing models are evolving and how the role of the public sector changes under the different approaches. They also explored the factors that affect the rating and availability of private finance. Specifically, they focused on the impact of choices in procurement model, agreement terms on the private financing, the public sector and the customer.
