Chicago: Mayor Johnson Joins Southwest Airlines, Construction Partners to Break Ground on Midway’s Largest Investment of the Year
illi News/10302874

Trending...
CHICAGO ~ Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, along with newly confirmed Aviation Commissioner Michael J. McMurray, Southwest Airlines, and local construction and union partners, gathered today to break ground on the rehabilitation of Runway 13C/31C at Midway International Airport. This $47 million initiative aims to renew one of the airport's primary runways and its intersecting taxiways, ultimately enhancing airfield safety at what is known as the "busiest square mile in aviation."

Mayor Johnson emphasized the importance of this project in his speech, stating that Midway International Airport is one of the largest employers on the South Side and provides thousands of Chicagoans with quality jobs in a constantly evolving industry. He also highlighted how critical infrastructure investments like this are crucial for furthering economic growth and opportunity while ensuring a safer air travel experience for future generations.

The rehabilitation of Runway 13C/31C will involve repaving the main runway and its intersecting taxiways, as well as updating the airfield's geometry to align with federal aviation standards. Additionally, new runway guard lights will be installed, and a new roadway will be constructed to support aircraft rescue and firefighting operations in case of an aviation incident.

More on illi News
Commissioner McMurray of the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA), which owns and operates both Midway and O'Hare airports, stressed that safety is their top priority. He also assured that this project would not impact passenger flight operations.

The $47 million project is being led by K-Five Construction Corporation and has been in planning stages since 2022. The CDA is seeking over $37 million in federal funding through the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Federal Aviation Administration's Airport Improvement Grant program.

Southwest Airlines' Vice President Airport Affairs Steve Sisneros expressed gratitude for the partnership with the City of Chicago to launch this critical project that invests in Midway's future. He also mentioned that as both Midway and Southwest continue to transform, they look forward to serving Chicagoans for years to come.

In addition to the runway rehabilitation, the existing Runway 13L/31R, which has been closed since 2023, will be permanently decommissioned on June 12. On the same day, the runway undergoing rehabilitation will be re-designated as Runway 13L/31R. This change has been communicated to pilots and Midway-based personnel in accordance with federal requirements.

More on illi News
This airfield work is part of ongoing efforts to improve operations at Midway and follows terminal improvements completed by the Johnson administration in fall 2023 under the Midway Modernization Program. This $400 million investment included revamping the airport's concessions program, expanding the passenger screening area, and upgrading the main parking garage.

The rehabilitation of Runway 13C/31C is a crucial aspect of Midway's five-year capital plan, which focuses on maintaining and upgrading existing airfield and terminal facilities to promote growth and safety at the airport. Other upcoming projects include lighting improvements in the Economy Parking Garage, terminal restroom renovations, terminal roof replacement, and rehabilitation of Runway 4L/22R.

Filed Under: Government, City
Show All News | Report Violation

0 Comments

Latest on illi News