More soil remediation is needed along the expanded runway at the Gary/Chicago International Airport before the Federal Aviation Authority will install a new lighting safety enhancement system.
The airport authority on Tuesday approved a $877,000 contract with HIS Constructors Inc., of Indianapolis for the remediation of contaminated soil at the end of the main runway.
Airport executive director Dan Vicari said HIS was one of four bidders for the project.
T.J. Morgan, HIS chief operating officer, said the work should take about 30 days. His firm has until the end of March to complete it. Morgan pledged to use all local subcontractors.
The FAA plans to install the lighting approach system for the runway to aid pilots in landing, especially in compromised weather conditions.
Meanwhile, roof replacement work for the airport’s new general aviation U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility has begun, said Patrick Lee, of Lee Companies, of Gary, which is overseeing the renovation work. Maris & Son Inc., of Hobart, is doing the roof work under a contract awarded last month.
The customs facility, expected to open in June or July, will allow international travelers to clear customs in Gary, instead of other nearby airports with customs.
Workers are renovating a portion of an existing brick building used for fire and rescue operations, for the customs office.
The airport board re-elected its current officers, with Stephen Mays again serving as chairman, Denise Dillard as vice president and Alesia Pritchett as secretary.
Carole Carlson is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
