JFK Runway Makeover Finishes Ahead Of Schedule

Matt Molnar, NYC Aviation, for Gothamist

Jim Steven, the Port Authority manager in charge of the project to renovate JFK's longest runway (13R-31L), showed us around his job site earlier this month, telling us his deadline was a firm July 1st; "They gave me 120 days, not 121 days." Well, it looks like Steven & Co. will be able to enjoy the holiday weekend after all, because they've finished ahead of schedule! Cause for celebration in a city that rarely makes deadline, no?

The NY Times points out that nearly everyone predicted chaos and delays—and it seems these cynics may have helped for a smooth and successful outcome. The executive director of the Port Authority told the paper: “The public cynicism for the capacity of an agency like the Port Authority to build on time, or on budget, is pretty high. Failure would have been unacceptable.”

So what can you expect from the new and improved Bay Runway? Less delays, less maintenance, and at least 40 more years of life. Also, it can now accommodate the space shuttle, if need be.

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By Jen Carlson in News on June 29, 2010 5:25 PM

Comments [rss]

Ace

13R-31L was widened from 150 to 200 feet to accommodate the the new double decker Airbus A380 (261 ft. wingspan) and Boeing's new jumbo, the 747-8 (243 foot wingspan).

Blue387

Makoever!

Theodore Wirth

LOL. I was expecting pics of 90-lb anorexic fashion models that vaguely resembled Jackie O.

asakasan

It's a good thing it can accommodate the shuttles, just in time for them to stop flying ...

longacre

It actually could always accomodate the shuttle. Times-fact-fail.

And if a shuttle does go to the Intrepid, it won't be flying here itself, sadly. It will be on the back of one of NASA's 747 Shuttle Transporters (which will still be pretty awesome).

inoyourider

Or for us to get one to put at the Intrepid.

http://www.intrepidmuseum.org/shuttle/

inoyourider

Wow.

Finishing a contract, especially in construction, early?

Not just on time which is rare enough here, but early?

Nice job.

hip hop's finest

I think it takes good leadership and good people to do a job done right, maybe this time was simply what happens when people do their job?