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     Runway construction could resume early due to mild weather, lack of frost

14 January 2010
KATHERINE HUDSON

Construction of the 600-metre runway expansion at Deer Lake Regional Airport stopped in early December, however, if mild temperatures continue, it may restart earlier than anticipated according to airport manager Jamie Schwartz.

The unseasonably warm temperatures the western region has been experiencing so far this winter have created conditions with minimal snow and a weak foundation of frost.

“We would anticipate a mid- to late-May startup, but this timeline could move ahead if the mild winter and lack of precipitation continues,” said Schwartz.

The favourable weather during the fall months enabled the contractor to complete the scheduled work as planned for the period, Schwartz said, noting that the milder weather had no impact on extending or not extending the construction activity during this winter.

Construction for the 2009 season was completed on schedule on Dec. 8 with 30 per cent of the project complete. The project should be finished by the end of September 2010. Schwartz said the project is progressing according to plan and has not had any setbacks to date.

“Considering the amount of work completed in relation to our timeline, we are confident the project will be completed on schedule,” he said.

The airport currently has an 1,800-m runway and the extension project will lengthen it to 2,400 metres, enhancing operating conditions for airlines at the facility.

The entire project is estimated to cost about $9.5 million. The federal and provincial governments each are contributing $3 million each and the airport authority is financing $3.5 million.