Governor David Paterson kicked off a $376.3 million runway reconstruction project for John F. Kennedy International Airport. The Bay Runway will undergo rehabilitation to reduce delays and improve airport operations, supporting an estimated 2,500 jobs. The governor was joined at the runway by Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) director Christopher Ward, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), local elected officials and members from the labor community.
"Since it first opened in 1948, John F. Kennedy Airport, and very often the Bay Runway itself, has been New York's gateway to the world, serving millions of passengers each year, providing tens of thousands of jobs and generating billions in economic activity," Paterson said. "If Kennedy Airport is to remain a portal to and from this city and our country, we must continue to invest in it through necessary infrastructure upgrades. The runway expansion, addition of taxiways and other improvements will save passengers time, reduce delays and costs associated with congestion and provide considerable economic development to this region."
Ward said, "I want to thank governor Paterson for supporting this major project at a time when infrastructure investment nationally is being cut back. This project will not only reduce delays and save money at JFK in the long run, but will create thousands of local jobs."
PANYNJ chairman Anthony Coscia said, "We are capitalizing on a required job and the end result will be a better experience for all who pass through JFK Airport. Tougher materials, smarter configurations and outstanding teamwork will make this undertaking a huge success."
Construction on the Bay Runway, or Runway 13-31, will begin immediately as part of the second phase of the JFK Delay Reduction Program. The project will widen the runway from 150 to 200 ft. and will include a new drainage system, new electrical infrastructure, the addition of delay reduction taxiways and accommodations for future navigational aids. The project will support 1,000 direct and 1,500 ancillary jobs, including direct construction work, asphalt and concrete production, running of aeronautical lighting and food services.
The improvements are expected to reduce flight delays overall by an estimated 10,500 hours per year.
Accommodations to taxiways - including high-speed exits for landing aircraft and holding pads where departing aircraft can literally pull off - will enable planes to bypass those held on the tarmac so that others may proceed.
The project is funded through two sources: PANYNJ will provide $292.4 million, and the FAA will provide $83.9 million. Of the FAA's funds, $53 million will be used for work associated with the Delay Reduction Program and the remaining $15 million is allocated through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).
Runways at major commercial airports require major maintenance work every five to 10 years. This investment in the Bay Runway takes advantage of an opportunity to make longer-lasting improvements to the Bay Runway - foregoing old-model asphalt for an 18-inch concrete overlay instead. The lifespan of concrete nearly five times more than asphalt and will provide an estimated long-term savings of $500 million while reducing the need for ongoing maintenance.
Through extensive cooperation and coordination with the FAA and the airlines, the PANYNJ expects to minimize the impact on airport operations during the 120 days that the runway will be closed for construction in 2010. Airlines are adjusting schedules and operations to mitigate delays, and the airport's three remaining runways will be utilized to their full capabilities during the Bay Runway's closure.
The following quotes were provided in support of the Bay Runway project:
U.S. senator Charles Schumer said, "This funding is terrific news for New Yorkers and anyone who has plans to travel through John F. Kennedy International Airport in the future. As we all know, flight delays have long plagued New York's largest airport, causing not only headaches, but countless problems at the airport. But with this runway reconstruction project, not only will much-needed jobs be created, boosting the local economy, these frustrating delays will hopefully be eradicated once and for all."
U.S. senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, "This is the right investment for JFK Airport. These federal dollars will support job creation and bring critical updates for the airport. I will continue working with governor Paterson, senator Schumer and the entire congressional delegation to make sure New York gets its fair share from the federal government."
Congressman Gregory Meeks said, "I commend governor Paterson, the FAA and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey for undertaking this important project that will create jobs and reduce the high costs that come with air traffic delays. These improvements are well timed as air traffic congestion has been a major problem at JFK Airport for some time. I give this project my full support and look forward to working with governor Paterson, the Port Authority and the Administration on its completion."
Senate president Malcolm Smith said, "JFK is one of the busiest airports in the entire world; its impact on our economy makes this project a very wise investment. The facility has undergone a great deal of growth in recent years and we want to capitalize on that as we work to turn this economy around, protect jobs, and ensure that tourists and others continue to visit New York. Travelers deserve safe and timely transportation services—this project will help to ensure that JFK remains a major local employer and contributor to our economy for years to come."
Senator Martin Malavé Dilan, chair of the senate transportation committee said, "John F. Kennedy Airport serves as an economic engine for the city and state of New York and as a vital hub to world travelers. Any improvement to services is a wise investment. The expansion of the Bay Runway will reduce delays, ease congestion, improve airport operations and create jobs in the process. These improvements are necessary to keep JFK airport safe, sound and viable for decades to come."
Assemblywoman Barbara Clark said, "Anyone who has waited on a tarmac for a departure knows how frustrating flight delays can be. I am pleased that governor Paterson, the Port Authority and FAA have committed to the vital runway extensions at JFK announced today. JFK is an important part of the Queens economy and a world class transportation hub. It is my hope that this will not only reduce delays but will also provide thousands of jobs in the process."
Assemblywoman Grace Meng said, "Although flight delays are an inevitable part of airline travel, anything we can do to reduce congestion on our runways and cut down delays will help maintain JFK's status as a leading transportation hub. The New York metro is among the busiest for air travel in the world and these runway improvements will help travelers reach their destinations on time. That this project will produce needed jobs is an additional benefit for Queens. I thank governor Paterson and the Port Authority for their leadership."
Gary LaBarbera, president of the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York, said, "Members of the Building and Construction Trades thank governor Paterson for recognizing the importance of large infrastructure projects, particularly in these economic times. And we thank the Port Authority for its continued commitment to the region. The money invested in this project will translate directly into hundreds of jobs that pay good wages with health insurance and pension benefits for working men and women in our industry." Tags: