Urban Wins ACEC/PA Award

The American Council of Engineering Companies of Pennsylvania (ACEC/PA) has selected an Urban project for one of its 2010 Diamond Award Certificates for Engineering Excellence.

Recognized in the Transportation Category, the extension of Runway 17-35 at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), one of the nation’s busiest airports, was designed to reduce delays and increase airfield capacity. 

Prior to its extension, Runway 17-35 was 5,460-feet long and primarily served commuter-type turbo-prop and some jet aircraft.  Space to extend the runway was restricted to the south by Hog Island Road, Conrail tracks, and the Delaware River, and to the north by the elevated I-95 structure.  The solution, which involved the use of available land on both ends of the existing runway, allowed for a 1,040-foot extension that could subsequently accommodate all regional jets and air carrier turbo-jets up to and including Group II aircraft (Boeing 737 series and similar). 

The extension of Runway 17-35 reduces delays at PHL and this will have a positive ripple effect to reduce delays across the nation.  Reduced delays and improved operations will also provide a substantial positive economic impact for the Delaware Valley. 

Open to all firms privately practicing consulting engineering in Pennsylvania, Diamond Awards aim to recognize the outstanding contributions of Pennsylvania consulting engineering firms for enhancing the social and economic welfare of the Commonwealth and its citizens.