Luster Leads Hartsfield-Jackson’s Taxiway Victor to Completion

Although some call it little more than a U-turn, Luster National’s staff knows that Taxiway V will have a major impact on the way many Hartsfield-Jackson passengers get to their gates. The first of its kind in the nation to have FAA approval, the $42 million end-around taxiway was designed to enhance safety and increase capacity. This is one facet of the “busiest airport” in the world’s capital improvement project to address the challenges of a growing demand for air travel in the region. Senior Inspector, Phil Fleming believes “Taxiway V is the largest major efficiency improvement since the 5th runway. “ Mr. Fleming, a Luster employee since 2003 monitors the quantities of materials used in the project and the associated costs. His work is instrumental in ensuring that the project is completed on budget.

At approximately 4,200 feet in length, Taxiway V connects Runway 8L-26R with taxiways Echo (E) and Foxtrot (F). Planes landing on the northern most runway will simply travel to the end of the runway, make a sharp left then turn right onto the new 4,200 foot-long taxiway that dips 30 feet below the existing runway level before emerging at the gate area. The deep dip in the taxiway lets planes taking off from the adjacent runway continue their takeoffs without interruption. Taxiway V will also be used during easterly wind conditions to queue aircraft departing on Runway 8R to relieve congestion on taxiways E and F.

Construction of Taxiway V consisted of grading, drainage, paving, lighting, signage, and striping. Prior to construction, this project required the excavation of approximately 1,200,000 cubic yards of soil. To meet all regulations and requirements, construction included a storm water pump station, a concrete retaining wall approximately 1,660 feet in length and a blast wall approximately 1,780 feet in length.

Coordination of utility relocations and a variety of physical relocations were vital to the successful completion of Taxiway V. Approximately 2,400 feet of the existing Non-licensed Vehicle Road (NLVR), portions of the North Terminal Exit Roads and access ramps to Interstate Highway 85, the existing Runway 26L localizer, the Delta Airlines fiber optic communication line and a fuel line were relocated during this project.

Synchronizing the relocation of utilities required working with Georgia Power Company, Bellsouth, and Atlanta Gas & Light. Another vital component to the success of this project was balancing the needs of the FAA and other contractors working within the area.

John Cordner III, P.E., HJCM Construction Manager executive, praised Luster employees for their ability to successfully coordinate the many components of this “one of a kind” project. “Luster National employees [were] an integral component in our success addressing the project challenges. Phil Fleming, Thelma Victor, Craig Garland and Thomas Rooks have worked tirelessly regardless of the hour to ensure the quality of the work, coordination with on-going airport operations, and safety of the construction crews achieved expectations.”

Luster National, Inc. is a program, project and construction management firm with offices across the United States. The firm is built on a solid foundation of client focus, integrity, and social responsibility. For more information go to www.luster.com.

For more information on Luster National, Inc, go to www.luster.com.