SOMERSET COUNTY AIRPORT RUNWAY EXTENSION

Groundbreaking – August 1, 2007

The Somerset County Airport runway extension project will increase the length of the runway by 305 feet. Currently 4697 feet long, the extension will make the runway 5002 feet in length, allowing larger aircraft to take on more fuel and safely take off. The project also includes lighting and marking of the extensions as well as the installation of REIL’s and PAPI’s. A new Category 1 Localizer antenna and shelter will be installed, and the removal of tree obstructions will take place as part of this improvement project.

The accommodation of larger aircraft will be a benefit when courting businesses looking to locate or expand in Somerset County. Also, larger planes require more fuel to fill their tanks which means a collection of more fuel tax money.

This project will cost $1.4 million dollars, a majority of which is being funded through a federal block grant. The project bid was awarded to New Enterprise Stone and Lime Company. L. Robert Kimball and Associates will serve as the Construction Manager and EADS Architects is the Design Architect.

Participating in the ceremony were Somerset County Commissioners Jim Marker, Brad Cober and Pamela Tokar-Ickes; Sen. Richard Kasunic; Brian Gearhart, Division Chief for Engineering and Planning, Bureau of Aviation; Dave Wright, Somerset County Airport Manager; Greg Elliott, EADS Architects; Joe Felix, L. Robert Kimball and Associates; and a representative of New Enterprise Stone and Lime Company.