Friday, June 27, 2003

Fifth runway plans taking shape

The State Transportation Board last week heard the design proposal plans for a fifth runway at Hartsfield Atlanta International Airport. The Georgia Department of Transportation is currently working in partnership with the City of Atlanta to construct the new runway over Interstate 285. Riverdale Road was recently relocated to allow for the new construction.

"Placing a runway over the freeway is a unique situation," said Glenn Bowman, Georgia DOT Project Manager. "But through the great spirit of cooperation that we currently share with the city of Atlanta in planning this project, our efforts will make both air and road travel in the area safe and convenient to the public."

"Both the Georgia DOT and the City of Atlanta have done a phenomenal job in the planning of this project," Georgia DOT Board member Johnny Gresham said. "Their efforts will be of great benefit to all travelers."

The runway is expected to open in 2006.