SANDSTON, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Richmond International Airport has begun a permitting process to renovating the second-floor of the terminal, and consolidating two security checkpoint areas into one. An application to the state Department of Environmental Quality, for which public comment began today until March 4, involves more than 78,000 square-feet of renovation, and new construction of combined 44,500 square-feet split between two floors. The consolidated security area will accommodate up to ten security lanes with the ability to reach fourteen in the future, along with a new meet-and-greet area, new concessions and support services, and a new full-service cafeteria. DEQ permitting is needed for environmental impact of the new construction.