How we got here
Originally built in 1985, the SLRA runway has undergone daily maintenance to uphold its safety standards for aircraft operations. However, in 2021, an aviation-engineering firm highlighted the pressing need for comprehensive runway rehabilitation, according to the release.
In conjunction with expert consultants, airport staff worked diligently to devise a cost-effective solution capable of accommodating corporate jets that frequently utilize the airport and play a vital role in supporting the regional economy, the release states.
The design project is set to meet all of the strict design standards set by the Federal Aviation Administration, a critical aspect that ensures the construction project qualifies for essential grant funding, the release states.
The expected sources of funding for the estimated $30 million construction project will primarily come from FAA and TxDOT Aviation grants, according to the release. The airport operates as a self-sustaining business model and does not rely on general fund tax dollars for its operations or development projects.
The timeline
The release states the design phase is anticipated to take approximately 10 months, with construction slated to commence in 2026. Regular updates on the project will also be available on the dedicated website located at www.runwayupdate.com.
Mitchell Davies, SLRA deputy director of aviation, said in the release the runway will undergo crushing and recycling to serve as a foundation for an asphalt overlay to minimize the disruption caused by a lengthy runway closure.
Utilizing asphalt pavement, a widely adopted practice for single-runway airports, will offer the flexibility to address potential pavement concerns during nighttime, ensuring minimal disruption to aircraft operations and scheduling, the release states.
The impact
Sugar Land Regional Airport hopes to play a pivotal role in driving the regional economy and contributes significantly to the property tax rolls, supporting vital services provided by both Fort Bend County and Fort Bend Independent School District, the release states.
With over 100 Fortune 500 companies regularly utilizing SLRA, the airport serves not only the needs of various corporations but also the needs of the local general aviation community, the release states.
The finished improvements will accommodate larger aircraft and ultimately foster economic growth, according to the release.
