FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 3, 2019
FLL North Runway Closure for Major Rehabilitation
Broward County, FL – On Monday, June 3, 2019, the North Runway will close at midnight for up to four months as part of a $90 million rehabilitation project that will include rebuilding and resurfacing the runway and associated taxiways. Portions of the runway date back to 1943 when the U.S. Navy built it during World War II for the Fort Lauderdale Naval Training Base. The last significant improvements to the North Runway were made in 2004, more than 15 years ago. During the reconstruction activity, all flights will operate on the South Runway.
The rehabilitation work will include replacing the runway's 75-foot center portion with concrete to extend its life 30 plus years; repaving of the runway's shoulders with asphalt as well as electrical and signage systems upgrades. Drainage enhancements will help dissipate water from the runway and surrounding area during heavy rainfall.
Additionally, taxiway upgrades will feature more modern and efficient designs. The Federal Aviation Administration will update runway status lights during the construction activity. The rehabilitation project, led by General Asphalt Co., will employ approximately 150-200 construction workers.
Historically, the North Runway handles approximately 70 percent of flight operations at FLL. During its closure, residents east and west of the South Runway may experience increased noise. This situation, however, will return to normal conditions once the North Runway reopens.
Ron Gardner Viewing Area Temporary Closure
Please note, the Ron Gardner Aircraft Viewing Area on the southwestern side of the North Runway will be closed to the public Wednesday, May 15 through late September. It will be used to stage construction equipment and as a temporary concrete plant.
Preliminary taxiway construction, which started in late March, is currently underway on the North Runway. Media interested in a tour of the taxiway upgrades should contact the Airport's Public Information Officer Greg Meyer.
For North Runway updates, visit the project's dedicated page on the airport's website.
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Media Contact:
Leona Henry, Public Relations Coordinator
Office: 954-797-1035
Sussette Rodriguez, Public Relations Assistant
Office: 954-797-1102
