Mead & Hunt partnered with the City of Scottsdale to design the Runway 3-21 Rehabilitation project at Scottsdale Airport (SDL). We prepared a Design Concept Report, establishing project justification, proposed scope, and obtaining FAA approval for the design concept, including the use of the Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) delivery method. The team evaluated pavement rehabilitation suitability for the existing aircraft fleet mix, surface conditions relative to FAA Advisory Circular 150/5300-13A standards (standard at the time), project phasing, cost, and overall constructability. Additionally, Mead & Hunt developed a risk matrix to identify high-risk construction challenges. Unsuitable subgrade conditions were identified as a critical risk with potential schedule impacts, prompting our team to proactively incorporate a preapproved subgrade repair method into the construction documents.
Due to the nature and location of construction activities on the airport’s only runway, the project required a complete airport closure, except for helicopter operations on the apron. Clear coordination and consistent presence onsite by the project team were paramount due to the tight 45 calendar day schedule and compliance check requirements. Ultimately, the project was completed ahead of schedule and under budget despite monsoon weather challenges.
