This multi-phase project with South Bend International Airport (SBN) began with our planning team overseeing a feasibility study and ensuring compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). One major outcome was the separation of Terminal Apron from Taxiway B, which increased safety for aircraft during taxiing and pushback operations at terminal gates—a key recommendation from Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 139 inspectors.
The project also:
- Realigned Taxiway B, which runs parallel to main Runway 9R/27L
- Corrected direct access taxiways, non-standard taxiway crossing angles, and apron grading issues
- Built a centralized deicing apron designed to collect and manage deicing fluid runoff
The feasibility study specifically addressed SBN’s requirement for a 75-foot-wide Taxiway B, challenging the FAA’s initial preference for a 50-foot width. Mead & Hunt’s team successfully demonstrated that a wider taxiway was necessary to accommodate SBN’s current and future aircraft needs. Serving as the lead designer and primary consultant throughout all five phases, Mead & Hunt guided this $80 million project to completion.
