This project included a 2012-foot extension for Runway 18L, holding apron, relocation of affected FAA NAVAIDS and new ARFF/Service Road to accommodate emergency and freight vehicles. The holding apron will provide three parallel taxiways leading to Runway 18L.

Tasks included deicing runoff collection infrastructure, grading, drainage, electrical, utilities, signage, marking, fencing, and erosion control. Additionally, this contract includes the extension of Taxiway G-8 from Taxiway G to Runway 18L. Construction of the runway extension required temporary displacement of the 18L threshold. The 18L project was completed nearly 2 months early, and $2.7 million under its original $47 million budget.

With the early completion of the 18 L Extension, Paragon officially began work on 18R in September 2002. Paragon completed its first milestone on October 3, 2002 with the displacement of the 18R threshold. The completion of this project allowed more immediate access for planes between the West cargo area and takeoff.

The major activities for the 18R extension project have included storm drainage and fiber optic installations. The old navaids building and the existing 18R approach lighting system facility were demolished to make way for the extension of the runway and taxiway. In addition, a temporary blast wall was erected at the end of the existing runway to allow work to progress, safe from jet blasts.

The entire project is estimated for completion in early November 2003.