ONSLOW COUNTY, NC — A recently awarded contract for an airport expansion project in Eastern Carolina is scheduled to begin later this year.

According to officials, this project includes extensive renovations and expansions of the airport’s taxiways and runways to accommodate larger aircraft, as well as the creation of a new access to the airport road and the realignment of NC 111 to facilitate the runway extension.

The $30 million contract to expand the runway at Albert J. Ellis Airport in Onslow County has been awarded to Balfour Beatty.

The runway will be 900 feet long and contractors will install a new medium-intensity approach lighting system to help pilots navigate departure and arrival queues.

“Balfour Beatty will leverage its extensive experience in executing runway expansions to implement these exciting new expansions at Albert J. Ellis Airport,” said Josh Taylor, project manager for Balfour Beatty in North Carolina. “When completed, the revitalized airport will provide a convenient travel experience for passengers and motorists traveling to and from Onslow County.”

Balfour Beatty has completed numerous renovation and refurbishment projects at North Carolina airports over the past seven decades, according to a press release.

Onslow County approved the construction contract this summer.