Florida Airport's Runway Expansion On Hold

Mar. 12--Plans to extend the runway at Kendall-Tamiami Executive Airport are on hold until the Federal Aviation Administration approves the project, Miami-Dade County Aviation Department officials told the West Kendall Community Council on Wednesday.

The FAA is currently reviewing plans to extend the 5,000-foot runway by 1,800 feet to the west and 500 feet eastward so planes take on more fuel and fly longer distances.

That may take a while, but if all goes as planned, the runway expansion project would be completed by the first quarter of 2009, officials said.

Until they hear back from the FAA, Aviation Department officials plan to hold a series of public meetings to further explain the project, address concerns and seek support.

The first meeting is tentatively planned for April 20. Details are pending.

One homeowner near the airport offered aviation officials a bit of advice to get locals to back the project: include in the plans a device to monitor decibel levels.

"I think that would be essential to get the support of local residents in Country Walk and the Hammocks," Keith Holder said.

Officials agreed to look into the noise monitors, but reminded residents that a longer runway would decrease the noise levels in the community -- and make it safer -- since planes would be higher above ground by the time the jets roar over the neighborhood.

And they reiterated that commercial flights would not be operated out of Kendall-Tamiami.

"We've put a lot of money into MIA [Miami International Airport]," Aviation director Jose Abreu said.

"Even from a pure business perspective, it makes no sense for us to commercialize any other airport in the county than MIA."

As for the cost, Abreu said they are counting on covering the about $12 million cost with mostly federal funding, with as little as 10 percent coming from county funds.

"We're competing with airports across the nation for funding," Abreu said.

"It's stiff competition, but I really do think we have a chance."

Community Council member Miguel Cervera asked Abreu what the community could do to help.

Abreu suggested sending the FAA letters supporting the project.