Newsletter_Summer 2026_FINAL

A PUBLICATION BY LEA+ELLIOTT TRANSPORTATION CONSULTANTS

SUMMER 2026

IAH Skyway Modernization Program Advances to Support Future Passenger Growth

Rendering of the new IAH Skyway Alstom 300R vehicles Image credit: Alstom

HOUSTON – Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is embarking on a major modernization of its Skyway Automated People Mover (APM) system to support continued passenger growth and enhance operational efficiency. Originally opened in 1999 and expanded over the following decade, Skyway has served as a critical link between terminals for millions of travelers each year. With increasing demand and aging infrastructure, the Houston Airport System (HAS) is advancing a comprehensive Service Life Renewal Program to upgrade vehicles, controls, and passenger facilities—ensuring the system remains reliable, efficient, and capable of meeting future needs. The Skyway Service Life Renewal Program was approved by the Houston City Council in March 2026, with work beginning immediately following notice to proceed. As part of the program, the existing fleet will be replaced with new Alstom Innovia™ APM vehicles. The legacy automatic train control (ATC) system will be upgraded to a Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) system, improving headways and increasing

In this issue...

IAH Skyway Modernization Program Advances to Support Future Growth Staff Spotlight

President’s Column In Progress Meet the Staff

capacity. The upgraded system will also allow an additional train to operate during normal service, further increasing passenger throughput. continued on p 3

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Staff Spotlight

IAH Skyway Modernization continued from p 1

President’s Column

Michael O’Connor

At Lea+Elliott, our people are the foundation of every successful project. This new staff spotlight section introduces team members who are helping shape the future of our company through technical excellence, collaboration, and leadership. We are proud to highlight the individuals whose expertise and dedication continue to strengthen our work and help our Clients across the transportation industry.

In conjunction with the CBTC upgrade, a new communications system, including a fiber-optic backbone network, will be installed. The existing Central Control Facility (CCF), currently located in Terminal B, will be decommissioned and replaced with a new CCF within the Maintenance & Storage Facility. Within the passenger stations, the platform screen door system will be replaced, incorporating passenger counting capabilities. Existing passenger information displays will also be upgraded to larger LED screens. Lea+Elliott has supported HAS and the IAH Skyway since the system’s original design and construction. For this modernization, Lea+Elliott was engaged to develop an implementation plan that maintains daily operations while enabling installation, testing, and commissioning of new systems during overnight maintenance periods. The project is scheduled for completion over a 57-month period.

Every hour and every day our work allows tens of thousands of people reach their destinations, all around the world. Just imagine it. Lea+Elliott has been in the business of supporting our Clients’ in moving people for over 50 years and we are extremely proud of our combined accomplishments.

Michael O’Connor joined Lea+Elliott in 2014 and brings more than 35 years of experience working on rail system projects around the world. Specializing in traction power systems for metro rail, commuter rail, and high-speed rail networks, Michael has contributed to transportation programs across the United States, the United Kingdom, and

The expertise of our people has influenced many great improvements to the technologies that make it all happen. I know that, without the expertise and commitment of people like ours, automated people mover (APM) systems would not have made such an important impact on airports, cities and campuses—and on the people who count on the mobility access that these systems provide to get them to their destination. I mention these things to let you know my feelings about the people—and the company—I’ve now been asked to lead. My knowledge is based on experience--35 years of it. I’ve managed many mobility planning projects, including some of our company’s largest planning projects including ACRP Report 37 on Airport APMs, the City of Honolulu rail system, and airport APMs at Newark and Singapore international airports. I also have a unique vantage point that has shaped my appreciation for this firm and its staff. I served initially as a Project Planner and later as a Project Manager, a company Principal, a Regional Director, and company Treasurer. I also managed the activities of both the Accounting and IT departments. I’ve seen people in all facets of this company perform above and beyond; bringing innovations to projects that have made Lea+Elliott the premier APM consultant to support project Owners through planning, design, construction and operation of automated mobility systems around the world. I am thankful for our team of industry-leading professionals and I’m equally grateful for the project Owners who entrust us with their ever larger and more complex mobility requirements. I welcome your input and support as we move into this era with its unique opportunities and challenges in getting our Client’s passengers to their destinations.

Aaron Hester, P.E.

Aaron Hester, P.E. is an electrical engineer based in Lea+Elliott’s Dallas office and has been with the firm for more than 28 years. He leads the firm’s modeling group, oversees the TPSim, Network, and Load Flow models that support Lea+Elliott’s LEGENDS © Simulation Models, and

beyond. His decades of experience have given him a practical, hands-on understanding of rail infrastructure and the many challenges involved in bringing complex systems into operation. Michael’s passion for railways began early in life when he dreamed of becoming a train engineer, and that enthusiasm continues to shape his work today. Team members appreciate his depth of knowledge, steady perspective, and genuine passion for the industry. When he is not working on transit projects, Michael enjoys spending quiet Sunday mornings gardening or playing golf and values any opportunity to return home to Scotland to spend time with family.

helps clients evaluate system performance, operational behavior, and power requirements. Aaron is known for turning complex engineering data into clear, insightful visualizations that support planning, design, and decision-making. Aaron also serves as Project Manager for the IAH Skyway Service Life Renewal and DFW Terminal F Station Activation projects. Outside of work, he enjoys relaxing at the pool with good music and credits his early fascination with bridge design for inspiring his career in engineering and modeling.

Stephen Li, M. Eng., C. Eng.

Detroit to host 20th International Conference on Automated People Movers and Automated Transit Systems Detroit will be the host city for the 20th International Conference on Automated People Movers and Automated Transit Systems (APM-ATS 2026). The conference,

Stephen Li joined Lea+Elliott in 2017 and currently supports the Honolulu Rail Transit Project as the Core Systems Oversight Consultant Project Interface Manager. His role involves bringing together project teams, contractors, and stakeholders to help keep complex transit system interfaces coordinated

and moving forward efficiently. With more than 20 years of international rail experience, Stephen has developed a strong reputation for his calm, thoughtful approach and ability to navigate technically challenging projects with attention to both detail and collaboration. His background spans all phases of transit delivery, giving him a well-rounded perspective that benefits both clients and project teams alike. Stephen is also a longtime member of the Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET), reflecting his commitment to continued professional growth. Beyond his work in the transit industry, he enjoys playing pickleball with his fellow Lea+Elliott colleagues. He also enjoys cycling to work and starting each morning with a good cup of coffee.

hosted by the ASCE Transportation & Development Institute, will be co located with the ASCE T&DI International Conference on Transportation and Development (ICTD 2026) and International Airfield and Highway Pavements (Pavements 2026). Collectively, the ASCE Transportation Conferences will be held in partnership with the Michigan Department of Transportation from June 28 – July 1, 2026. In addition to 14 technical sessions with over 40 presentations, the APM-ATS conference will feature an APM O&M Managers Workshop, as well as a tour of the ExpressTram APM and McNamara Terminal at Detroit Metro Airport. Additional information about the conference can be found at www.apmconference.org

David D. Little, M.Eng President/CEO

Lea+Elliott President/CEO David D. Little visiting Lea+Elliott Honolulu staff Image credit: Lea+Elliott

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The Airport reopened the first lanes of the modernized Airside A and Airside C shuttle systems for passenger service March 13, 2026. The second lanes are currently scheduled to reopen in Summer 2026. The Airport is currently commissioning the first lane of the Airside E Shuttle system, which is scheduled to open to the public this summer, followed by the second lane in the fall. Future modernization efforts are also planned for the Airside F shuttle system, including replacement vehicles and train control system upgrades. Overall, these improvements will help ensure Tampa International Airport’s APM systems continue to provide safe, reliable, and efficient passenger transportation while supporting the Airport’s long-term growth and modernization initiatives.

Gate Link APM Replacement Program In Full Motion at Orlando International Airport

With the design phase complete, the ATC replacement has advanced into implementation. Lea+Elliott is providing technical oversight as installation, vehicle retrofit, checkout, and testing activities continue. Recent milestones include continued vehicle retrofit progress and the start of dynamic testing activities. Lea+Elliott’s ongoing work includes technical interface coordination, testing oversight, and support for implementation activities on an active airport APM. Through this effort, Lea+Elliott continues to apply its automated transit and train control experience to help advance a complex modernization project in an operating airport environment. Tampa International Airport Modernizes Legacy APM Shuttle Systems Tampa International Airport was the first airport in the United States to operate an APM system (opened in 1971). Today, the Airport operates eight airside shuttles that connect the Main Terminal with Airsides A, C, E, and F (two at each Airside), along with a separate landside APM, SkyConnect, which connects the Main Terminal to the Rental Car Center and the Economy Parking Garage. In addition, a new 16-gate Airside D is currently under construction that will include an APM connecting the Main Terminal to the new airside terminal. Airside D and its new APM shuttle are scheduled to open in 2029. The existing airside shuttle systems are decades old and have reliably served passengers for years. To maintain a high level of service and reliability, the Airport has implemented a modernization program that includes replacement of the aging vehicles and running surfaces, as well as upgrades to the train control system. To minimize disruption to passenger service, the vehicles replacements and system upgrades are being implemented one lane at a time for each airside shuttle system.

The newly installed APM train on Airside 2 (4800 Lane) Image credit: Lea+Elliott

SEA STS ATC Renewal Reaches Major Implementation Milestones SEATTLE - Lea+Elliott continues to support the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) Satellite Transit System (STS) Controls Renewal and Replacement project, a modernization effort focused on replacing the automated train control system serving SEA’s airport APM. The project is intended to support the Satellite Transit System through its remaining service life while meeting the demands of a growing airport. Lea+Elliott’s involvement began with project validation, technical support, and procurement assistance for the ATC replacement. The team also provided oversight, coordination, and technical review for the subconsultant-led design of the fixed-facility improvements needed for the upgrade, including the fiber optic and electrical conduit network that supports the new control system. That workstream has now reached a key closeout milestone, with construction complete and the design team’s as-built documentation submitted to the Port.

ORLANDO – Orlando International Airport is replacing its Gate Link APM systems at Gates 70 – 129 with newer, modern APMs to improve the passenger experience at Florida’s busiest airport. The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) approved a $253 million project that will replace the “must-ride” Gate Link systems that serve as the primary means of transporting passengers between the landside at Terminals A and B and their gates located on Airside 2 and Airside 4. The Gate Link systems consist of two lanes, each connecting Terminals A and B to the respective Airside 2 and Airside 4 satellite buildings/gates. Two trains, each containing a three-vehicle consist, operate in synchronized dual lane shuttle mode. The existing Airside 2 APM system started passenger service in 2000, and the Airside 4 APM System was first placed into service in 1990, with cars being replaced in 2008. Lea+Elliott was selected by GOAA to be the Design Criteria Consultant for this project. Lea+Elliott’s initial task included supporting GOAA with programming and procurement strategy activities and developing the Design Criteria Package that ultimately resulted in a highly competitive and successful procurement process. Upon completion of this phase, Lea+Elliott supported project management activities and provided oversight of the design, manufacturing, installation, and testing of the APM system components. The Gate Link replacement project commenced in January 2024 and will be completed on a lane-by-lane basis, starting with Airside 2 (4800 Lane). The project is currently finalizing construction and installation activities to facilitate the start of site testing and commissioning activities for the Airside 2 (4800 Lane) APM System.

continued on p 5

TPA Airside Shuttle D Image credit: Lea+Elliott

SEA STS APM Image credit: Lea+Elliott

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6363 N. State HWY 161, Suite 580 | Irving, Texas 75038

Editor:

Crystal Oczkowski 972.890.9800 info@leaelliott.com

Advisor:

Steve Perliss Principal

About Lea+Elliott Lea+Elliott is a transportation consulting firm offering a broad range of planning, engineering, program management, and construction management services for clients worldwide. These services are provided to public transit authorities, airports and private sector owners for new transit systems and the refurbishment of existing systems. We have expertise in all modes of transit, including high-speed and intercity rail, rapid transit, commuter rail, light rail, automated guideway transit, personal rapid transit, and autonomous vehicles. The firm is especially well known for its creative structuring of procurements for a wide range of delivery options that include DBOM and P3.

Meet Mimi Kozuma

Michiyo (Mimi) Kozuma exudes confidence and joy. She is a person whose personality seems to send a smile through the phone when you call her and she most certainly brightens the day of each employee she serves. “ Through the years, Lea+Elliott has offered me various roles within the organization,” she says, “and with each transition, I have gained knowledge and expertise that I probably would not have experienced in other companies.” Mimi was initially hired as an administrative and technical support specialist, then transitioned to the accounting department as a project biller and office manager in the Miami office. “Being part of the accounting team was a great opportunity,” she says. “ I realized how much I enjoy working with Excel.”

In 2020, Mimi was offered a role in the Lea+Elliott Human Resources department. Though she originally had some hesitations, she decided to take on this new opportunity. She notes that she began her HR career just when COVID brought tremendous challenge to corporate America. “There were a lot of curve balls,” she says. Through that tough era, Mimi realized she had to learn fast, stay agile and sort out the most effective ways to manage employee productivity and morale in a workforce that had to shift rapidly from office protocols to remote and virtual corporate models. Today, Mimi finds that managing the HR function for about 120 employees brings new challenges her way every day. “The most interesting part is that there is always something new to learn,” she says. “I also enjoy being able to support and connect with Lea+Elliott employees on a personal level; it is intriguing to learn about people in general.” Mimi’s work involves 401(k) issues, insurance management, ESOP administration, DEI topics, and new team member onboarding, as well as typical and traditional employee relations activities. Most of the Lea+Elliott staff work in the U.S. but are sometimes assigned to international projects, adding additional HR issues that challenge her to perpetually learn and grow. Mimi’s time outside of work is spent with family, “ including my fur babies,” she says, which includes an adopted dog and rescued cats. “I have also been finding entertainment in exploring new places with my mom now that she has retired. We find such a variety of restaurants and cafes,” Mimi adds. “We like to experience them and then come home and try to replicate their recipes. My hobbies and interests are forever changing but I have always found my interests to be related to food. ” Mimi’s parents immigrated from Japan many years ago, so Mimi and her mom and sister now enjoy occasional trips to see family in places like Tokyo, Kyūshū, and Tochigi. “One of my longest volunteer activities was being a teacher’s assistant at a Japanese school in Miami,” she says. “It was extremely rewarding. I have also volunteered at animal shelters and I hope to contribute more.” Living simply, helping others, and finding purpose through meaningful work clearly define Mimi’s rich and vibrant character.

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