Tri-Cities Airport Plans to Improve Safety by Removing Obstructions Near Runway
The Tri-Cities Airport in Endicott, New York, is moving forward with a project to improve safety by clearing trees and other obstacles near Runway 3-21. The project will also involve securing legal agreements with nearby property owners to ensure that no future obstructions interfere with the runway. These efforts aim to enhance the safety of aircraft, especially during nighttime landings and takeoffs.
What’s the Project About?
The airport has identified over 4,700 obstacles, mostly trees, that pose risks to aircraft as they approach or depart Runway 3-21. The plan is to remove about 11 acres of these trees both on and off airport property. Additionally, the airport will work with nearby property owners to secure easements, allowing them to manage these areas and prevent future obstructions.
Why Is This Necessary?
These obstacles make it harder for pilots to safely land or take off, especially at night. By removing the obstacles, the airport can provide a safer and more reliable runway for all types of aircraft.
What Are the Alternatives?
Three options were considered:
1. Preferred Option: Remove the obstacles and secure easements. This option best meets safety needs without reducing runway length.
2. Shorten the Runway: Moving the starting point for landings would clear the obstacles but would also make the runway shorter, which would limit its usefulness.
3. Do Nothing: Leaving the obstacles in place would continue to compromise safety, particularly during nighttime operations.
The first option was chosen because it improves safety without negatively impacting airport operations.
Impact on the Environment and Community
The project has been carefully reviewed to ensure it won’t harm the environment or local communities. Steps will be taken to protect wildlife and minimize any temporary disruptions during tree removal. No significant long-term environmental or community impacts are expected.
What’s Next?
The airport is sharing this plan with the public for feedback before finalizing the details. The goal is to start work as soon as possible to improve safety for everyone using the airport.
In summary, this project will make Tri-Cities Airport safer by clearing obstructions near the runway, ensuring pilots have clear and safe approaches for landings and takeoffs.