Officials broke ground on a new taxiway at the Marion County Airport on Tuesday morning, clearing the way for construction to begin on the 35-foot-wide structure that the county hopes will enhance airport operations.
Marion County Parks and Recreation hosted the groundbreaking ceremony for the future Taxiway A at Marion County Airport X35, which is located at 14968 SW 110th Street in Dunnellon.
The project calls for the construction of a new, 35-foot wide taxiway that is parallel to Runway 5-23 at the facility. In addition to the construction of the taxiway, the project also calls for updates to grading, drainage, lighting, signage, and markings.
When it is completed, the taxiway will “enhance airport operations, strengthen aviation safety, and position Marion County for continued economic prosperity,” according to a statement from the county.
Approximately 98% of the project is funded by the Federal Aviation Administration and the Florida Department of Transportation. Other partners on the project include CWR Contracting, and Hoyle-Tanner and Associates.
“The construction of this taxiway is a clear representation of progress, partnership, and our continued investment in the future of Marion County,” said Marion County Parks & Recreation Director Jim Couillard. “We look forward to seeing what doors this addition opens for the Marion County Airport because it’s not just 35 feet of taxiway, it’s a pathway to progress.”
The Marion County Airport is approximately 792 acres in size and features two active, lighted runways, an airplane maintenance facility, and a flight school. The latter two are privately owned. The facility currently hosts 68 t-hangars and 51 tie-down spaces, according to the county.