Cutting the ribbon — airport style

Addison Airport, one of the busiest general aviation airports in the Dallas area, has completed a runway reconstruction project, as well as upgraded and improved approach and airport lighting, drainage and grading along the airport’s 7,200 foot runway. The runway received a new layer of asphalt and portions of the runway were reconstructed down to its base. So, in keeping with an aviation theme for Monday’s ribbon cutting ceremony, acrobatic pilot Jan Collmer cut a ribbon stretched across the runway with his brightly painted Extra 300 aircraft.

“Addison Airport contributes approximately $600 million annually to our local economy and provides more than 3,000 jobs,” said Addison Mayor Todd Meier. “We want it to continue to be the general aviation airport of choice for pilots regionally and throughout the country.”

Work at the airport included 123 truckloads of asphalt, 181 miles of new paint, 22 miles of electrical cable, and enough grass to cover 35 professional football fields, airport officials said.

The project was 90% funded by the FAA’s Airport Improvement Program through a block grant to the Texas-Department of Transportation Aviation Division, with the airport providing 10% of the $11.6 million budget.

The project required a carefully coordinated effort because the airport was open during most of the construction, airport officials note. Contractors were required to have experience working on airports and a 1,000 foot safety zone was established between aircraft and construction equipment.

“This type of runway is essential to maintain the airport’s competitive advantage,” said Joel Jenkinson, Addison Airport director. “Our customers will find a much improved aviation facility that is ready to take advantage of the improving economy.”

The airport features an FAA control tower, 24-hour U.S. Customs service, a 7,200-foot runway and is home base to more than 700 aircraft ranging from privately owned Boeing 737s to Piper Cubs. For more information: AddisonAirport.net