New runway project kicks off at Indianapolis International Airport

A new multi-million dollar runway project is underway at the Indianapolis International Airport.

The first phase of the expansion will create thousands of jobs and address climate change. The new $190 million runway will improve passenger and cargo capacity at the airport. 

The project is supported with more than $100 million in Federal Aviation Administration funding. Indianapolis Airport Authority Executive Director Mario Rodriguez said in a statement this is the most awarded to any U.S. airport last year.

“This project will pay dividends to the community for decades to come and will play a crucial role in Indiana’s economic growth over time,” Rodriguez said.

Officials say the amount of concrete being used in the project is the equivalent of a two lane highway from Indianapolis to Terre Haute. The old concrete will be recycled into the project and a new carbon catching concrete is being used for the taxiway. 

Other sustainable elements of the project include LED lighting and an extra inch of concrete to extend the life of the concrete runway.

Officials said diverse businesses have been contracted for the construction and officials expect more to be hired.

Contact WFYI city government and policy reporter Jill Sheridan at jsheridan@wfyi.org. Follow on Twitter: @JillASheridan.