The Gary Airport Authority awarded a $70,430 contract Wednesday to B & B Thomas Upholstery, of Hammond, to refurbish 76 passenger seats in the airport’s terminal. While there’s still no news on a commercial airline to fill those seats, the airport’s terminal is undergoing a renovation project in anticipation of landing a new carrier soon. In September, the authority approved $525,695 in contracts including electrical work needed for new screening equipment and two passenger bridges that escort passengers from their plane into the terminal. The renovation also includes HVAC improvements, new flooring, painting, updated fire protection, plumbing, casework on cabinetry, drywall, doors and hardware. The terminal hasn’t had passenger service since Allegiant Airlines stopped its flights in 2015. It hasn’t been updated since 2001. In September, executive director Dan Vicari said negotiations with commercial airlines were ongoing. He declined to identify the airlines, but said he hoped an announcement would come soon. Vicari said Transportation Security Administration rules require a 90-day preparation period, once an airline commits to passenger service. The terminal renovation will bring the airport into compliance with TSA standards, Vicari said earlier. Carole Carlson is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.