Louisville Regional Airport Authority (LRAA) officials, along with leaders of state and local government, yesterday celebrated the completion of the first phase of the Crittenden Drive Relocation Project, which eliminated the first of two “pinch points” in the roadway’s alignment that encroached on mandatory clearance zones for a new taxiway.
Construction of a new Taxiway A) at Louisville International Airport (SDF) is necessary to permit the airport to handle the larger, 21st century commercial aircraft. At an opening ceremony atop the new bridge that spans the CSX railroad tracks, Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer, Speaker Pro-Tem of the Kentucky House Larry Clark and LRAA Board Chairman Phil Lynch joined Kentucky’s Lt. Gov. Jerry Abramson who noted, “The state continues to support this important project that is improving access to the Louisville airport and helping companies chose a business location in the Louisville region.”
Mayor Greg Fischer said, “Progress takes vision, and this project clearly demonstrates that our airport has the vision to grow for our community’s future.” Chairman Lynch extended the Board’s special thanks to Rep. Clark, who he said was key to the project’s success because of his vigorous support to secure its funding over several legislative sessions. There are two more phases of Crittenden Drive Relocation Project. Construction is expected to begin on the North Connector in November 2012 and continue through fall 2013. When the North Connector is finished, the second—and final—pinch point will be eliminated, allowing construction of Taxiway Alpha to be completed. The final phase of the project could begin as early as summer 2013 and includes rehabilitating the Woodlawn Overpass.
