Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) announced that Van Nuys Airport (VNY) is embarking on a $13.1 million improvement project to reconstruct Runway 16L and rehabilitate Runway 16R. The eight-month project will break ground later this month and will deliver important safety enhancements and extend the lifespan of airfield facilities that contribute to VNY’s world-class status.
The work will involve reconstructing the entire 4,000-foot length of Runway 16L and include enhancements to the taxiway, runway lighting, airfield signage and surface markings, and adding jet blast pads. Improvements to Runway 16R will include resurfacing the asphalt and associated connector taxiways to extend the life of the pavement, refreshing runway and connector taxiway markings, and upgrading the lighting to LED fixtures.
“As one of the busiest general aviation airports in the country, VNY and its tenants will benefit from these runway improvements that will enhance operations, safety and our facilities,” said Justin Erbacci, Chief Executive Officer, LAWA. “The project design, phasing and construction will maximize federal grants while minimizing disruption to ongoing operations. This work is an example of how VNY is meeting our strategic goals of operating and maintaining exceptional facilities for our tenants, employees and passengers.”
The project will be managed by LAWA’s Development Group with HNTB Corp. serving as engineer-of-record and Sully-Miller Contracting Co. as general contractor.
The construction schedule was strategically phased to minimize airport operational impacts due to the closures of runways and taxiways. Construction will begin with a 161-day closure of the 4,000-foot Runway 16L beginning in late February. During this time, operations will be directed to the 8,000-foot Runway 16R, with a minimum of two connector taxiways operational at all times. The improvement project is targeted for completion by the end of November 2022.
