North Carolina Construction News staff writer
Three airports in North Carolina are set to receive significant improvements through grants awarded by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The FAA’s Airport Improvement Program Supplemental Discretionary Grants aim to promote sustainability and resiliency at the Davidson County Executive Airport, Wayne Executive Jetport, and Hickory Regional Airport.
“This investment is a crucial step in ensuring that North Carolina’s airports are prepared for the future,” said Becca Gallas, director of the N.C. Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation. “By enhancing sustainability and resiliency, we are not only improving safety but also positioning our state to meet the demands of a rapidly changing aviation landscape.”
Davidson County Executive Airport
Davidson County Executive Airport in Lexington will receive $1 million to reconstruct its taxiway lighting system. This project includes installing energy-efficient LED lights, upgrading cabling, and improving grounding and lightning protection systems. The existing rotating beacon will also be replaced with a new LED beacon, and terminal apron lighting will be enhanced. These upgrades aim to boost operational resiliency and safety, particularly during nighttime and adverse weather conditions.
“This funding allows us to provide safer, more sustainable operations for our pilots and passengers,” said Ted Myers, chairman of the Davidson County Airport Authority. “We’re proud to be leading the way in making our airport more resilient.”
Wayne Executive Jetport
The Wayne Executive Jetport in Goldsboro will receive $1 million to address long-standing drainage issues on its airfield. These improvements will reconstruct drainage systems on the north end, which have caused flooding and operational disruptions during heavy rain. The upgrades will enhance water flow and reduce flooding risks, ensuring continued operations during severe weather.
“This upgrade is essential for ensuring we can continue to operate in all conditions,” said Gene Dawson, manager of Wayne Executive Jetport. “The grant will enable us to safeguard the airport from future storms and keep our operations running smoothly.”
Hickory Regional Airport
Hickory Regional Airport will benefit from a $750,000 grant to upgrade its runway lighting system. This project includes replacing existing incandescent lights and Precision Approach Path Indicators with energy-efficient LED lighting. These enhancements will improve energy efficiency and operational safety, especially during nighttime operations and in inclement weather.
“We are excited to enhance our lighting systems and improve our environmental footprint,” said Chad Hunsucker, director of Hickory Regional Airport. “This funding will help make our airport more sustainable and reliable.”
These grants support North Carolina’s ongoing efforts to reduce emissions and promote clean transportation initiatives, aligning with Governor Roy Cooper’s vision for a greener, more resilient transportation network. The AIP Supplemental Discretionary Grant is part of a broader FAA initiative to modernize airports across the U.S., focusing on sustainability, resiliency, and safety.
