USA. Midway Partnership, with concessions partners Airport Dimensions and Hyde Park Hospitality, has this week launched the 100-seat The Club MDW, the first premium lounge in the 96-year history of Chicago Midway International Airport.
The airside lounge is available to all travellers, regardless of airline or class of service, by purchasing a three-hour pass for US$50 or with membership in various lounge networks, including Priority Pass and LoungeKey.
The Club is an Airport Dimensions brand, a network spanning over 20 locations across North America and the largest lounge brand in the US market. The Club MDW is operated by Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) partner Hyde Park Hospitality, led by President and CEO Marc Brooks.
Located near Gate B1 in the recently renovated Central Market, the 3,300sq ft space offers guests a bar, complimentary refreshments, a variety of seating options and workspaces equipped with charging stations.
The Club MDW food & beverage offer features local craft beers and spirits from Revolution Brewing, Two Brothers Brewing and Koval Distillery, and locally sourced cuisine.
The construction of the lounge – which has 50 full-time employees – was completed this month at a cost of approximately US$5 million.
The facility’s design draws inspiration from Chicago’s rich architectural history and features high-contrast, monochromatic tones and photography by local artists Mark Hersch and Angie McMonigal.
Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows provide sweeping views of the airfield.
Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) Commissioner Jamie L. Rhee commented: “The opening of The Club MDW is a continuation of the work completed through the Midway Modernization Program, and it is one of many upgrades that passengers can expect as we continue to transform Chicago’s original hometown airport.
“We are excited to offer this new service to Midway’s growing number of travellers and look forward to seeing it become an integral part of the airport experience.”
Airport Dimensions America President Nancy Knipp said: “In the ever-evolving world of travel, we are so thrilled to be a part of this new chapter in Midway International Airport’s 96-year history.
“As a new wave of travellers is redefining how they spend their time in airports, Airport Dimensions is committed to setting new industry standards through innovation, personalised experiences and exceptional hospitality.
“The Club MDW has been uniquely designed to celebrate the diverse architectural history of Chicago and will offer Midway’s travellers an authentic taste of the city.
“We are delighted to support Midway Partnership and the CDA to contribute to their vision of elevating the guest experience and are very excited to partner with local ACDBE partner Marc Brooks and Hyde Park Hospitality, whose team will manage the operations of the lounge ensuring the highest quality of service for the guest.”
Brooks commented: “As a native Chicagoan and small business owner, it is extremely exciting to be a part of the team to bring the first lounge to Midway.
“This partnership is yet another example of the city’s commitment to include more ACDBE firms in airport contracts.”
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said: “Midway International Airport is an essential gateway for our city, and The Club MDW is a key part of our ongoing efforts to enhance the travel experience here in Chicago for leisure and business passengers.
“Our commitment to investing in our airports reflects our mission to continue delivering a world-class experience that meets the needs of all travellers.”
Contracted to CDA, the Midway Partnership, a joint venture including Vantage Group, SSP America and Hudson, has invested over US$75 million to bring more than 70 new dining and retail brands to Chicago Midway Airport.
Midway Partnership CEO Sammy Patel commented: “As we approach the completion of our transformation of the shopping, dining and service offerings at Chicago Midway International Airport, we are thrilled to celebrate the opening of the airport’s first-ever lounge alongside our partners at the Chicago Department of Aviation and Airport Dimensions.
“This latest amenity is an excellent addition to our world-class concession programme, offering another option for guests looking to relax and enjoy the journey through Midway.” 
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