Des Moines International Airport Taxiway D Reconstruction

Background

As part of our general consulting contract with the Des Moines International Airport (DSM), we developed a multi-phased improvement program for the reconstruction of Taxiway D and connecting Taxiways D1-D6, Taxiway B, Taxiway C, and portions of the terminal, cargo, and Iowa Air National Guard (ANG) ramps.

Approach

Working collaboratively with the ADO and DSM staff, this more than $30M program was phased into two construction projects. A wide variety of technical elements including taxiway connector removals/relocations, paved shoulders, construction phasing, and centerline lighting in support of Surface Movement Guidance and Control System (SMGCS) operations were discussed with airport stakeholders. Additionally, a formal FAA Safety Management System (SMS) process and comprehensive Construction Safety and Phasing Plan (CSPP) were developed. Our team led extensive coordination efforts with commercial airlines, Airway Facilities, airport traffic control towers, fixed-base operators, Iowa ANG, and general aviation tenant operations in effort to minimize operational impacts and balance stakeholder priorities with reconstruction requirements.

Results

To accommodate available funding and airport operational criteria, the project was completed with two bid packages over a three-year period. Both phases consisted of seven phases to  minimize interruptions to Iowa ANG access as well as maintain operations on the terminal apron. As part of the program, review and modification assistance was provided to the FAA regarding guidance on airport construction safety and phasing; much of which has been absorbed by the FAA Central Region.

Having won the Iowa Concrete Paving Association award for Most Outstanding Airport Paving Project as well as being completed for 7% less than budgeted for, the project was considered a success on multiple levels.