"By the end of 2013, travelers will enjoy a more seamless, comfortable, environmentally friendly, and faster connection between the airport and BART's Coliseum/Oakland Airport Station. Additionally, the Connector will bring improved air service and economic benefits to the airport and the East Bay Area," said Deborah Ale Flint, acting director of aviation for the airport.

The Port of Oakland, which owns and operates OAK, will contribute $45.4 million toward the Connector for design, construction, and operation & maintenance costs. The Port will fund this contribution through Passenger Facility Charges, a federal programme, which allows airlines to collect up to $4.50 for every enplaned passenger.

BART's Oakland Airport Connector will replace the current AirBART bus service, and will shuttle the passengers every 4.5 minutes between the airport and BART.

Air carriers currently serving OAK, as well as potential new airlines, have offered their unanimous support of this project.

The $492 million project, which will use $70 million in federal stimulus money, should create up to 5,000 direct and indirect jobs during the three and a half year construction phase, which should begin in mid-2010, according to BART.

On 10 December 2009 BART has awarded the California-based Flatiron/Parsons Joint Venture the contract to design and build the 3.2-mile automated people mover (APM). The Board also voted seven to one to award Doppelmayr Cable Car the contract to operate and maintain the connector once built.

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