Charleston airport plans expansion to size, capacity, services (Update: More security space)

(Updates at the bottom.)

Between Boeing's growth, Southwest Airlines arrival, and a plain old rebound in travel and local business, the Charleston International Airport is expanding its capacity for the first time in a couple decades.

Among the upgrades: Another baggage claim area, more for food vendors, restrooms, more parking, and much bigger concourses.

The Post and Courier has a good rundown on what's up and a nice infographic showing the footprint of the proposed expansion. 

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Update December 17: The Post and Courier writes that Denver's Fentress Architects has been selected to design the $150 million makeover and improvements. The company also designed the Los Angeles LAX remake.

Update March 19: With the designer in place, the Charleston airport leaders have narrowed the list of contractors to build the $150 million in renovations to six candidates — and a final meeting to select one is slated for Thursday.

Update March 23: An Austin-based contractor has been selected, and The Post and Courier also bring word of some additional planning details about the new airport layout — including more space for the "secure" portion of the airpot. It's something not everyone is thrilled with.