Blue Ridge Airport Road Relocation and Runway Extension Design

Ardurra delivered airport expansion services for Blue Ridge Airport's transformative runway extension project, successfully advocating for and executing a 6,000-foot runway extension to serve regional aviation needs. The multi-year effort began with Airport Layout Plan updates and progressed through complex environmental assessment processes, completing NEPA requirements within a remarkable 15-month timeframe.

The team facilitated strategic funding coordination, securing local Harvest Foundation support while preparing design documents to capitalize on FAA supplemental funds. Complex design challenges included relocating a state-maintained roadway to accommodate the new runway and air protection zones, requiring innovative constructability and value-engineering approaches throughout the design phase.

Key Project Achievements:

• Advocated for a 6,000-foot runway extension through comprehensive Airport Layout Plan updates serving regional aviation demands

• Completed NEPA environmental assessment within an exceptional 15-month timeframe, enabling project advancement

• Secured Harvest Foundation funding, accelerating design document preparation to leverage FAA supplemental funding opportunities

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  Designed state roadway relocation, analyzing multiple layouts, minimizing curves while controlling construction expenses

• Implemented flexible phasing options with bid alternates, enabling optimal funding utilization during bidding and awarding stages

• Coordinated complex grant requirements, ensuring FAA grant assurance compliance for future reimbursement and construction funding

• Met stringent FAA Benefit-Cost Analysis requirements through careful budgeting and comprehensive cost estimating

The project earned a 2024 American Council of Engineering Companies - Virginia Merit Award, recognizing exceptional engineering achievement and project management excellence. The runway extension provides Blue Ridge Airport with enhanced capacity supporting regional economic development while demonstrating innovative approaches to aviation infrastructure expansion within complex regulatory and funding frameworks.