As Concord continues to position itself for long-term economic growth, infrastructure that supports business access, regional connectivity and public services is becoming increasingly important. Supported by multiple federal and state grants, Contra Costa County completed a new administration building for Buchanan Field Airport at 181 John Glenn Drive in Concord. 

The new facility, just under 18,000 square feet, brings together multiple aircraft rescue and firefighting bays, a state-of-the-art general aviation terminal, and administration offices for the Contra Costa County Public Works Airports Division. 

Over 9,000 square feet of Kingspan’s insulated metal panels (IMPs) were selected by the architect KPA Group for the project. 

IMPs are engineered to withstand the rigors of the demanding airport environment. They are resistant to corrosion, weathering and physical wear, making them ideal for high-traffic areas exposed to both passenger foot traffic and aviation operations. The robust construction ensures long-term performance with minimal maintenance, helping the building maintain its visual appeal and structural integrity for years to come. Durability was essential for a project of this scale, where both the functionality and longevity of the building would be critical to supporting Buchanan Field’s future growth and ongoing service to the region. 

Kingspan Designwall 2000 panels in the colors Sandstone and Zinc Gray gave the team flexibility to create a clean, contemporary exterior suited to a public-facing airport facility. The combination of horizontal and vertical panel applications adds visual rhythm to the façade while reinforcing the building’s modern civic character. These aesthetics were incorporated to help achieve the project’s architectural and performance goals.

The building envelope also needed to support the operational demands of a high-use airport facility. With high R-values, Designwall 2000 helps maximize thermal efficiency while creating a double barrier against air and water penetration. For a building that combines passenger processing, airport administration and emergency response functions, that all-in-one performance made these panels a strong fit.

By bringing passenger terminal and administrative functions together in one facility, this project strengthens day-to-day operations of the airport while helping it continue serving a region focused on growth, connectivity and long-term investment in infrastructure. Now complete, the facility gives Buchanan Field Airport a modern front door that reflects the airport’s evolving role in the San Francisco Bay Area.