North Runway Extension Project Status
Phase 1 of the project to extend the north runway at PDX took place from May to November of this year, and it closed the north runway to all air traffic during that time. The temporary shift of increased flight operations on the crosswind runway should decrease now that the north runway has reopened.
Phase 1 included the following highlights:
- The asphalt on the existing runway was ground up and removed.
- The runway and taxiways were resurfaced with new asphalt and re-striped.
- Airfield lighting was restored.
- Large piles of heavy dirt called surcharge compressed the ground at the ends of the runway in preparation for Phase 2 construction next summer.
- The perimeter road around the airfield was moved to accommodate the longer runway.
- Some of the navigational aids were relocated.
Phase 2 will take place between spring and fall of 2010, again closing the north runway to all air traffic. The temporary shift of increased flight operations on the crosswind runway will be similar to what was experienced this year. Phase 2 will include the actual lengthening of the north runway on both ends, resulting in a new length of 9,827 feet.
In 2011, rehabilitation begins on the south runway.