Reconstruction of JFK airport runway begins

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Work began Monday on the reconstruction of Runway 13L-13R at John F. Kennedy International Airport and will be closed while workers repave.

Construction workers will use concrete instead of asphalt, increasing the useful life of the runway up to 40 years. Asphalt runways have an average useful lifespan from eight to 12 years.

The runway will be widened by 33 percent, and new high-speed taxiways will allow aircraft to exit the runway quicker. The taxiways also will allow the runway to handle more aircraft during peak periods.

Workers also will install of new cables, lights, navigational aids and signs. These improvements will allow the runway to incorporate the latest landing technology and meet safety standards.

“The Port Authority recognizes the need for infrastructure upgrades to improve the customer’s flight experience and to better maintain and operate our facilities and assets,” Kevin O’Toole, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey chairman, said. “This project is critical to achieve those goals, and we are working to ensure minimal impact while the reconstruction is under way.”

Work is expected to be completed in November.

Runway 13L-31R handles approximately 33 percent of the more than 455,000 flights that arrive at JFK annually.