The existing Runway Safety Area (RSA) at the Greenville Downtown Airport (GMU), did not meet FAA longitudinal standards for both undershoot and overruns, and an extension was required to ensure the safety of aircraft, crew/passengers, and the surrounding community. To address any environmental concerns related to the project, McFarland Johnson was asked to provide an Environmental Assessment (EA) and conceptual design for the proposed RSA Improvements, including tunneling 735 feet of Woods Lake Road. The EA evaluated the potential environmental impacts of the RSA improvements in accordance with National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), FAA Order 5050.4B and FAA Order 1050.1F. As part of the EA, McFarland Johnson provided Agency Coordination; Wetland Delineation; Flora and Fauna identification; NHPA Section 106 Consultation; Section 4(f) / 6(f) Evaluation; Alternative Analysis; Conceptual Design; and Public Involvement. The project scope included the following key elements:
- 340-foot displacement of the Runway 1 threshold
- 340-foot RSA extension of Runway 19
- Reconfiguration of taxiway A and B entrances
- Replacement of existing EMAS and installation of new EMAS
- Grading, stormwater and drainage facilities
- Earthwork to lower and tunnel 375 ft of Woods Lake Road, along with relocation of existing utilities and localizer
- Accomplish 600 foot RSA prior to both landing thresholds
- TORA: 5,733 feet; TODA: 5,733 feet; ASDA: 5,733 feet; LDA: 5,393 feet
Achievements
- This project was delivered on budget and met an accelerated schedule
- MJ’s diligent environmental analyses enabled avoidance and minimization of environmental impacts, which qualified the project as an Environmental Assessment.
- The Draft EA was completed ahead of the accelerated schedule, allowing for an earlier public comment period
- The Final EA is being completed ahead of accelerated schedule, allowing for an expedited FONSI