Community leaders and airport officials are preparing to break ground on a nearly $20 million improvement project at South Bend International Airport.

The project, known as “SBN UpFront,” is designed to improve passenger safety, traffic flow, and overall efficiency at the airport as passenger numbers continue to grow.

Airport officials say the one-and-a-half-year project will focus on upgrades to the airport’s front drive area to improve the passenger experience.

Several local and state leaders are expected to participate in the groundbreaking ceremony, including South Bend Mayor James Mueller, St. Joseph County Commissioner Tony Hazen, Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski, and South Bend Regional Chamber President Jeff Rea.

Representatives from the St. Joseph County Airport Authority and project development partners will also attend the event.