Chicago Construction News staff writer
Construction has begun on a $47 million project to rehabilitate one of Midway International Airport’s primary runways. The initiative will repave Runway 13C/31C and its intersecting taxiways, upgrade airfield geometry to meet federal standards, and install new safety features including runway guard lights and a dedicated emergency access road.
Led by K-Five Construction Corporation, the runway upgrade has been in planning since 2022. The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA), which manages both Midway and O’Hare, is pursuing more than $37 million in federal support through the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the FAA’s Airport Improvement Grant program.
The project will repave Runway 13C/31C — one of Midway’s primary airstrips — and its intersecting taxiways. The upgrades aim to enhance airfield safety at what officials often call “the busiest square mile in aviation.”
“Midway International Airport is one of the largest employers on the South Side, providing thousands of Chicagoans with quality jobs in a dynamic, ever-changing industry,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “This critical infrastructure investment is key to furthering economic growth and opportunity, while also providing for an even safer air travel experience for generations to come.”
The rehabilitation will also improve airfield geometry to align with federal standards, install new runway guard lights, and add a new roadway to support aircraft rescue and firefighting operations.
McMurray emphasized that the work will proceed without disrupting passenger flight operations. “Safety is the top priority of each of the 9,000-plus employees who work at Midway,” he said. “These investments will support that mission with the latest enhancements in airfield safety.”
Southwest Airlines, the airport’s largest carrier, voiced its support for the project.
“We are appreciative of the partnership from the City of Chicago to launch this critical project that invests in the future of Chicago Midway,” said Steve Sisneros, Southwest’s vice president of airport affairs. “As Midway and Southwest both transform, we look forward to serving Chicagoans for years to come.”
As part of the airfield changes, Midway will permanently decommission Runway 13L/31R on June 12. On the same day, the rehabilitated Runway 13C/31C will be re-designated as 13L/31R. Pilots and airfield personnel have been notified of the change per federal regulations.
The runway project follows the recent completion of the $400 million Midway Modernization Program, which upgraded the terminal’s screening and concessions areas, and improved the parking garage.
The rehabilitation of Runway 13C/31C is a key component of Midway’s five-year capital plan, which also includes upgrades to the terminal roof, restrooms, parking lighting, and other airfield improvements.
