The effort to build a new over-the-water runway at Logan is moving forward, with almost $100,000 in additional Massport funds for community group analysis of the proposal to reduce delays with a new runway. In addition, the FAA has agreed to hire a consultant for its runway panelists. The runway proposal is currently under FAA review with a six-member panel meeting monthly to discuss and address issues and concerns with the FAA.

"As passengers face record delays across the nation, it is vital that we bring some relief and move forward with a new runway," said Massport Executive Director and CEO Virginia Buckingham. "As this effort progresses, Massport will continue to work hand-and-hand with concerned community members. I have made it clear that every voice should be heard in this discussion."

Massport will provide an additional $97,000 to support the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) in their analysis of the runway. Massport provides this support so community representatives from the 24 cities and towns represented on the CAC can hire technical consultants to review runway data. To date, Massport has provided more than $340,000 to the CAC.

The FAA panel, formed at the request of FAA Administrator Jane Garvey has been meeting since February. The panel is comprised of six members, three appointed by Governor Cellucci and three appointed by Mayor Menino. Meetings are facilitated by FAA Regional Administrator Vince Scarano.

At a recent meeting, the FAA agreed to hire an independent technical consultant. Jim Muldoon, formerly General Manager of Aviation Technical Services for the Port of New York/New Jersey, was selected and has begun working with the panel. The panel is expected to complete its work by the end of the year. Once the process has been completed, the FAA will issue a Record of Decision on the runway proposal.

In recent weeks, the FAA has acknowledged that Massport's proposal to build a new runway at Logan differs from runway projects at airports across the country in that it would not increase capacity at Logan. In addition, longtime runway opponent and former Massachusetts Secretary of Transportation Fred Salvucci has hinted at a compromise on the proposed runway.

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