Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) has started work on an apron reconstruction project to repair the tarmac surrounding the terminal, an area used to park, unload or load, and refuel aircraft.

The $30m project, which is scheduled to be completed in seven phases over the period of two years, will provide adequate gate space for air carriers.

“Safety and security are our first priority and we are working closely with our all of our tenants, contractors, and staff to ensure a smooth transition.”

GFIA president and CEO Jim Gill said: “Our goal is to do this project with as minimal impact to the passengers and our airline partners as possible.

“We are due for an upgrade to our apron area and our staff have done a tremendous job of maintaining this pavement for years, but it is important to keep up on these repairs and excel in our operations.”

The US terminal apron will get 153,000 square yards of new concrete for future airport development and aircraft loadings.

GFIA noted that the amount of concrete being placed is enough to build a four-foot wide, four-inch thick sidewalk from its metro Grand Rapids location all the way to the Mackinac Bridge.

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Additionally, the airport is installing new LED lighting in the apron area to reduce energy usage, and upgrading its storm drains and underground utilities to support future development.

Gill added:  “We recently completed Phase One of our Gateway Transformation Project—giving an upgrade to the indoor part of our facility, now we move into the airside area upgrades. Safety and security are our first priority and we are working closely with our all of our tenants, contractors, and staff to ensure a smooth transition.”

The proposed construction work will not affect passengers’ movement.

Recently, the airport completed the first phase of a $45m Gateway Transformation Project, which upgraded the terminal’s interior.

GFIA served more than 2.8 million travellers this year and over 7,000 passengers pass through the airport each day.