January 12, 2025

Permanent Road Closure at Charlotte Douglas International Airport

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News Summary

Charlotte Douglas International Airport has announced a permanent road closure beginning January 3, 2024, affecting West Boulevard from Piney Top Drive to Steele Creek Road. This construction, part of the Fourth Parallel Runway Program, includes a new taxiway enhancing safety by eliminating aircraft crossings over the center runway. With an anticipated completion by 2027, this $1 billion investment aims to improve traffic flow and passenger experience during the busy winter holiday season.

Permanent Road Closure Announced at Charlotte Douglas International Airport

Prepare for major changes at Charlotte Douglas International Airport as officials have announced a permanent road closure set to begin on January 3, 2024. A crucial stretch of West Boulevard will be shut down, extending from Piney Top Drive to Steele Creek Road, impacting the daily commute of thousands.

Construction Timeline

The anticipated construction project, part of the broader Fourth Parallel Runway Program, is expected to last approximately four months. Not only will it result in the closure of the road, but West Boulevard will also be permanently realigned to make way for a new taxiway, known as the South End Around Taxiway.

New Taxiway to Enhance Safety

This newly planned taxiway aims to enhance safety standards by eliminating aircraft crossings over the center runway, a change long overdue at one of the world’s busiest airports. Taxiway P is projected to extend nearly 10,000 feet long and 150 feet wide, representing a significant investment in infrastructural safety and efficiency.

Impact of the Road Closure

Federal Aviation Administration, bonds, and passenger fees, the plans illustrate a serious commitment to enhancing the airport’s facilities. Passengers traveling through Charlotte Douglas International Airport, ranked as the seventh busiest airport in the world for arrivals and departures, can expect some disruptions during this critical construction phase.

Amazingly, this busy hub serves as a major base for American Airlines, which handles approximately 90% of the airport’s traffic. The upcoming winter holiday season, running from December 20, 2023, to January 5, 2024, is expected to witness nearly 3 million passengers and an estimated 25,000 flights.

Detour Routes and Traffic Management

Byrum Drive will serve as the main route for those traveling between Steele Creek and Yorkmont roads. For those moving between Sandy Porter and Beam roads, Shopton Road will be utilized. Additionally, West Arrowood Road will give access from the south to Sandy Porter Road and South Tryon Street.

Further enhancing safety, traffic signals will be installed along the designated detour routes, aiming to facilitate a seamless flow of vehicles despite the inconvenience caused by the construction.

A Bright Future for Charlotte Douglas Airport

2027, travelers can look forward to an upgraded and safer flying experience at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. These construction and expansion efforts reflect a forward-thinking investment in the airport’s infrastructure, ultimately enhancing the travel experience for millions.Charlotte Douglas International Airport is set to continue evolving as a critical transportation hub, prioritizing the safety and convenience of its passengers.