BRIEF: Executive airport runway reopens, concludes three-phase improvement project

The Johnson County Airport Commission hosted a ribbon-cutting Friday to celebrate the reopening of Taxiway Bravo, successfully completing the $5.7 million project.

The reopening of Bravo was the third phase of improvements to the airport — previous phases included new LED lighting, concrete and additional signage. The project also included the reopening of Taxiway Alpha in 2021. 

“The Airport Commission is very grateful for our strong working relationship with our federal partners. Taxiway Bravo lasted past its expected service life and this project would not have been possible without the support of the Federal Aviation Administration and our Kansas federal delegation,” Larry Peet, interim airport commission executive director, said. “This investment will service the community for several decades into the future through support for safe aviation operations and economic development opportunities.”

Funds for the project came from the Federal Aviation Administration's Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which Kansas 3rd District Representative Sharice Davids supported. The AIP saw $22 million go to Kansas for airport improvements, which can be used for runway rehabilitation or for other aging structures.

"Today's opening of Taxiway Bravo is an excellent example of the types of projects the bipartisan infrastructure law is helping address. This taxiway was past its expected service life and needed upgrades to remain safe," Davids said. "We came together today not only to celebrate this renovated runway and its impact on jobs and economic growth in our community, but also to share excitement for similar, future projects funded by the bipartisan infrastructure law's $22 million investment in Kansas airports."