Tuscaloosa airport begins $22M runway extension project

The latest Elevate Tuscaloosa project broke ground Wednesday morning at the Tuscaloosa National Airport.

The airport is set to get an upgraded runway to accommodate larger aircraft operations along with projected future growth + increased activity at the airport.

“The Tuscaloosa National Airport represents more than convenience or logistics. It stands as a symbol of our region’s future. It has the potential to serve as a powerful economic engine, not only for the City of Tuscaloosa but for all of West Alabama. The City Council’s investment in this project through Elevate Tuscaloosa reflects a commitment to creating new, higher paying jobs for today’s workforce and generations to come, and to creating a lasting legacy of economic opportunity for our entire region.”

Walt Maddox, Tuscaloosa mayor

Tuscaloosa National Airport Runway Extension

State and local officials gathered at the airport Wednesday morning to mark the official start.

The nearly $22.2 million project will extend Runway 4-22 by 1,100 feet. The project will also include lighting and electrical upgrades to enhance safety.

The project is primarily federally funded through the FAA, with a 2.5% match from the State of Alabama and a 2.5% match from the City of Tuscaloosa.  

“Today is a special day for the Tuscaloosa National Airport and for our entire community. The need for the runway extension has been identified time and time again, going back more than 40 years. This is an investment in infrastructure, an investment in safety, an investment in jobs. It’s an investment not just into Tuscaloosa, but into this entire region.” 

Jeff Powell, Tuscaloosa National Airport Director

Construction on this Elevate Tuscaloosa project is expected to be completed by summer 2027.