Airport Of The Month – Grand Rapids
Runway Resurfacing Involves Two-Phase Project
August 1, 2022

Photo Courtesy Lindsay Reidt Short Elliott Hendrickson
In 2021 the 5,750 by 100-foot runway at Grand Rapids was resurfaced by removing the old pavement and replacing it in kind. At the same time, extensive drainage improvements were implemented, including the installation of a full sub-surface system.
Over the centuries many different types of pavements have been invented by humans to make travel easier and keep things moving regardless of the weather. Beginning around 300 BC the Romans built first-class roads, many of which are still in use. The Empire's engineers designed highways that were crowned for drainage, had curbing, and were often paved with cut rock or cobble stones.
Later European civilizations lacked the Roman ingenuity and sometimes used corduroy for paving. Not old pants, but logs laid perpendicular to the roadway. Early in the 19th century "Macadam" was popular. Its f...
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