RDU West Remain Overnight (RON) Apron

The project involves the complete rehabilitation of the west apron area and includes the demolition of the entire existing asphalt apron, access roadways, and hangars. The new apron is to be constructed with full PCC commercial apron pavement strength to accommodate Taxiway Design Group 3 aircraft with the apron paved area increased to allow taxiway operations into parking positions with two access points to the taxiway involved. Major project aspects include PCC pavement design, RON apron layout, and phasing. RS&H is providing preliminary aircraft layout alternatives, access roadway design, PCC pavement design, preliminary grading, and consideration for future apron expansions in accordance with master plan documents. Work also includes apron area and edge lighting, taxiway signing, apron pavement markings, security control and fencing, miscellaneous drainage improvements, and relocation of existing sanitary sewer lift station.

Unique feature: Demolished asphalt pavements were reused as base material and incorporated into new pavement sections as well as maintaining haul routes. This project also included the demolition of old RamAir hangar. RS&H was able to partner with a new DBE consultant to perform the hazardous materials survey of the building.

Challenge Resolved: Per the ALP, the proposed West RON Apron is slated for future expansion to the east across International Drive and to the west, extending to existing Taxiway B. During the design process, compatibility for future expansion in both directions was considered and preliminarily designed such that future expansion could be possible in both directions without removing any existing pavement or replacing drainage infrastructure.

• Design process accounted for compatibility for future expansion in both directions
• Preliminarily designed such that future expansion could be possible in both directions