Oceanside, CA News

Improvements to McClellan-Palomar Airport will soon be underway. The Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a $3.58 million dollar reconstruction project for the airport. Three taxiways will be rebuilt to correct their deteriorating conditions, improving safety while reducing wear and tear on planes flying out of the airport. McClellan-Palomar Airport is a major gateway to North County and the San Diego County region, and is currently home to 274 aircraft.

In January, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) notified the County that it would cover 90% of the total project cost, by providing $3,142,000 in grant funds. The remaining balance will be covered under the Airport Enterprise Fund Spending Plan. There will be no impact to the County General Fund.

County construction contracts are competitively bid. They provide jobs and stimulate the local economy. The County Department of Purchasing and Contracting will advertise and award the contract to the lowest, responsible bidder by early August.

Construction at McClellan-Palomar Airport is slated to begin in November 2012 and be completed by April of 2013. Work on the taxiways will be done at night. The airport will reopen each morning, minimizing the impact to business and travel.