George D. Harlow Field: Runway Reconstruction

This $19.3 million project completed in 2014 included permitting, design and construction phase services for the relocation and extension of Runway 06-24 at George D. Harlow Field. Runway 6-24 was shifted, widened, and extended to 3,900’ x 100’. A parallel taxiway, two stub taxiways, and runway safety areas were reconstructed, marked, lit, and signed. Federal and non-federal NAVAIDs were relocated. The project also included construction of wetland replication and turtle habitat areas, a surface and subsurface stormwater drainage system, and temporary and permanent erosion control measures. Vegetative obstructions on and off-airport were removed from approximately 100 acres of wetlands. Extensive coordination efforts by Gale were required to obtain federal, state, and local permits for the project.

 

George D. Harlow Field Runway Reconstruction

During Construction

The Challenges

  • Master Plan and ALP require update
  • Runway too short and narrow
  • Rare species, wetlands, archaeological constraints
  • Multiple environmental permits required
  • Over 100 acres of tree obstructions in approaches
  • Easements required over 11 properties to remove trees
  • Up to 40 ft. of peat in proposed runway safety area
  • Runway bounded by two rivers
  • Residential neighbors surround airport

 

George D. Harlow Field

After Construction

Gale’s Solutions

  • Prepared update to Master Plan and ALP
  • Prepared Environmental Assessment and State Environmental Review documents
  • Lengthened and widened runway and taxiway
  • Obtained all easements, and purchased 3 properties
  • Planned, designed and coordinated mitigation plans for wetlands, rare species and archaeological resources
  • Obtained three federal, three state, and four local permits,
  • Constructed new runway/taxiway including:
    • Safety areas and airfield lighting/markings/signs
    • Wetland replication and restoration areas
    • Stormwater/flood detention facilities
    • Over 2500 wood piles installed for base of safety areas in peat
  • Removed tree obstructions in approaches
  • Eliminating peat removal to construct safety areas in wetlands reduced wetland impacts and eliminated substantial truck traffic on residential streets
  • Prepared for and represented owner at twelve public hearings