Raleigh-Durham International Airport Taxiway B Rehabilitation

Ardurra delivered rehabilitation services for Raleigh-Durham Airport's Taxiway B, from Taxiway C to B8, addressing pavement deterioration identified in the 2015 pavement assessment conducted as part of RDU's Master Plan Update. The project included connectors B5, B6, B7, and B8 as part of the north holding pad rehabilitation, requiring complete reconstruction of aging infrastructure originally constructed in the 1980s.

The rehabilitation involved removing existing concrete, asphalt base, and subgrade to a depth of 34 inches, constructing approximately 92,000 square yards of new concrete pavement with paved shoulders, and implementing sustainable construction practices through on-site concrete recycling. The project incorporated advanced drainage improvements and Surface Movement Guidance Control System (SMGCS) lighting requirements.

Key Rehabilitation Components:

• Reconstructed 92,000 SY of concrete pavement with complete removal of existing concrete, asphalt base, and subgrade to 34-inch depth

• Implemented sustainable construction practices, crushing demolished concrete on-site for a recycled aggregate base course supporting a new pavement structure

• Installed SMGCS centerline lighting, including light cans, conduit, and rehabilitation of taxiway edge lights, supporting safe aircraft operations

• Constructed an advanced pavement structure featuring a 12-inch recycled aggregate base, a 6-inch lean concrete base, and a 16-inch P-501 PCC pavement

• Enhanced drainage systems with new underdrain installation, mitigating the effects of existing wet soil conditions

• Completed electrical infrastructure upgrades, including taxiway signage evaluation, replacement, and in-pavement lighting rehabilitation

• Restored comprehensive site elements, including pavement marking, mid-field grading, drainage improvements, and turf restoration

The rehabilitation provides RDU with enhanced taxiway infrastructure that supports continued aviation operations while demonstrating innovative, sustainable construction practices. The recycled concrete aggregate base course provides superior drainage characteristics while reducing environmental impact through material reuse and improved water migration to new underdrain systems.