Taxiway reconstruction project underway at regional airport

A taxiway reconstruction project has begun at the San Marcos Regional Airport.

Work on Taxiway Charlie will include improvements to enhance safety with the installation of an upgraded LED lighting system, new signage and markings and a complete replacement of the taxiway pavement, the City of San Marcos recently announced.

“Taxiway Charlie has not been reconstructed since its original installation during World War II. Maintaining the airfield infrastructure is an essential safety component to daily operations,” Texas Aviation Partners Vice President Cassidy Berenato said. “Since Taxiway Charlie has the highest traffic volume, we are excited to enhance the user experience of the pilots flying into the San Marcos Regional Airport every day.”

Construction crews began mobilizing the area on Monday, Jan. 9 with demolition of the outdated pavement set to begin soon. The city said the improvements will limit risk from debris damage, which will ultimately enhance safety for taxiing aircraft and will allow pilots visual clarity when using the taxiway.

The Taxiway Charlie reconstruction project will be funded with a Federal Aviation Administration discretionary grant issued by the Texas Department of Transportation Aviation Division. The project is expected to cost $5,392,730, according to the city.

The San Marcos City Council approved $539,273 from the city’s general fund during the regular meeting on Sept. 20, 2022 to be used for the project. The city said the reconstruction project is expected to be completed by summer 2023.

“The City of San Marcos is thankful to our federal and state partners for their help in making this shared investment in airport safety a reality,” Assistant City Manager Joe Pantalion said.

As the Taxiway Charlie project continues, aircraft will taxi along the movement line of Charlie Taxiway where a pathway is clear of obstructions and construction activity to keep daily operations uninterrupted and minimize disruptions, the city said.

The Taxiway Charlie reconstruction project is among multiple projects in the works for the San Marcos Regional Airport.

The replacement of Taxiway Alpha is currently in the design process. According to the city, the taxiway is in need of heavy rehabilitation. The Taxiway Alpha project will also be funded by TxDOT Aviation through the FAA with grant/discretionary funding. The city’s website stated that the project will include replacement of taxiway markings, signage and possible upgrades to taxiway lighting system. The project will come after Taxiway Charlie and is currently contingent upon receiving federal funding.

The development of Airport Zoning Regulations is also in the design phase. According to the city, these zoning regulations will consist of updating the land development code with hazard zoning and land compatibility zoning. The city said the zoning ordinance is currently in draft format with meetings pending with stakeholders.