Airport Construction Begins with Night Work

LED Taxiway Lights currently installed at the airport – SJ Update photo

At Friday Harbor Airport, a major construction project begins on Monday August 26th. The Port’s contractor, Colvico Inc., will start the project with a series of night closures of the runway that will allow the work to proceed without interrupting airport operations. The airport closures are scheduled to begin Tuesday, September 2nd from 9:00 pm until 7:00 am, and will continue 4 nights each week for approximately one month. No regular landings or take-offs will be allowed during this time. However, the air ambulance will continue to operate at night throughout the construction period.

The construction project includes replacement of the runway edge lights and other navigation aids with LED lighting technology. The new fixtures have only recently been certified for use by the FAA. The Port is taking this opportunity to also replace exterior hangar lighting and parking lot lighting with the same low-energy technology as a cost savings and energy conservation measure. The taxiway lights were replaced with LED fixtures in 2012.

A second phase of construction will begin later in September with work on the grading and drainage systems at the south end of the runway. Paint markings on the runway, taxiway and tie down areas will complete this year’s projects.

The total cost of construction is $1,609,850, with the FAA providing $1,461,660 in Airport Improvement Funds, and the Washington State Department of Transportation providing $74,067.

For questions please contact Stuart Hansen at 317-8674 or 378-4724 or Marilyn O’Connor at 378-2688.

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