As an Annual Sponsor of GLC-AAAE, organizations have the exclusive opportunity to showcase their current projects on our website as the Featured Spotlight of the Month.
We are proud to highlight C&S Companies our Economy Annual Sponsor, as the Featured Spotlight for the month of December.
Company Overview: C&S Companies is a comprehensive engineering, design, and construction firm trusted by clients nationwide. We collaborate closely with our clients, working together to fulfill their vital infrastructure objectives and contribute to the betterment of their communities.
Project Description: C&S’s Muskegon County Airport Shift Taxiway A (6501’ x 50’) project included the reconstruction and realignment of Taxiway A, and reconstruction of a portion of all associated connector taxiways, Taxiways B, C, G, H, J, K and the freight apron connector. New airfield signage and lighting were added to meet the new taxiway pavement edges, powered by new constant current regulators (CCR) and airfield lighting cables. Additional work included grading, drainage, and pavement markings. Also included in this project was the replacement, adjustment, and relocation of FAA navigational aid utilities impacted by the relocation of Taxiway A.
What was the goal or purpose of this project?
An extensive planning study compared rehabilitation in place (keeping a non-standard separation of 350’) with reconstruction of a shifted taxiway and considered whether and existing waiver for the runway/taxiway separation distance would stand going forward. The FAA determined that the waiver would no longer be valid and a modification of standards would not be approved if the taxiway were to be rehabilitated in the existing location. Since it was determined that the full length of Taxiway A would be shifted and fully reconstructed, the new taxiway and associated connectors would need to be designed to meet the current FAA-standard separation distance from Runway 6-24 and pavement edge fillet geometry. By shifting Taxiway A, the taxiway now meets standard runway/taxiway separation of 400 feet. Taxiway A was also narrowed to a total width of 50’ to comply with current FAA design standards with the existing fleet mix. In addition, direct access to Taxiway H was permanently removed. Previously, aircraft could taxi directly from the terminal apron onto the runway without first turning onto a designated parallel taxiway. This configuration created a “direct access” condition, which the FAA identifies as a non-standard and high-risk geometry because it increases the potential for runway incursions and pilot confusion. Ultimately, the reconstructed taxiway and associated connector taxiways enhance the safety and quality while bringing the airfield geometry up to current FAA standards.
What innovative technologies or approaches were incorporated?
The design team utilized 3D modeling software to develop highly detailed models of the shifted taxiway corridor and proposed surface drainage. The team also utilized drone technology to capture aerial imagery and video throughout all phases of construction. Drone technology provided a safe and efficient way to monitor progress and document project milestones from a comprehensive aerial perspective. To increase sustainability and cost effectiveness, the project was designed to recycle aggregate base material from the existing taxiway and reuse it as base material for the new taxiway.
What challenges did you face during implementation, and how were they addressed?
One of the primary challenges was maintaining airport operations while performing major airfield work adjacent to the active runway. The project team developed a detailed safety and phasing plan in close coordination with the Airport, the FAA, the air traffic control tower and the contractor. Airfield closures were implemented to ensure safety and always keep one runway active to minimize disruptions to flight operations.
How does this project support future trends in aviation (e.g., net-zero goals, smart airports, UAM infrastructure)?
This project positions Muskegon County Airport to meet the aviation industry’s evolving focus on safety, sustainability, and smart airport infrastructure. This commitment to modernization aligns with broader net-zero initiatives. Complementing the Taxiway A project, Muskegon County Airport also advanced its sustainability goals through the FAA Zero Emissions Vehicle and Infrastructure (ZEV) Program, acquiring all-electric fleet vehicles to reduce ground emissions and support airport operations and maintenance. The electric fleet vehicles represent an important step in the Airport’s effort to improve air quality, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and transition to cleaner sources of energy.
What are the expected outcomes or long-term benefits of this project for your clients or the broader aviation community?
This project represents a forward-looking investment in the airport’s safety, efficiency, and long-term growth. By realigning Taxiway A to meet current FAA design standards and removing a hotpot with direct runway access from the apron, the project eliminates outdated geometry and potential safety concerns. The new configuration improves aircraft traffic flow and pilot visibility, allowing for more predictable ground movements and minimizing incursions. Completion of this project significantly improves the overall pavement condition index for the airport and serves as a catalyst for additional projects to bring the rest of the airfield pavements up to FAA standards.
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