TKDA Projects Earn Two Awards at ACEC/MN Banquet
TKDA is proud to announce two aviation projects were recognized at the American Council of Engineering Companies of Minnesota’s Engineering Excellence Banquet. This annual banquet recognizes engineering firms and their clients on successful projects that provide value to the community while demonstrating a high level of creativity and innovation. Both awards highlight our commitment to delivering safe and efficient infrastructure that strengthens Minnesota’s aviation system. From major commercial hubs to regional airports, we provide resilient aviation planning and design solutions.
Runway 12L-30R Reconstruction Wins Grand Award
The Runway 12L-30R Reconstruction at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport received a Grand Award. When water did not drain properly and ponded at the intersection of Runways 12L-30R and 4-22, there was a significant aircraft safety concern at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. To address the poor friction and drainage conditions, we collaborated with the Metropolitan Airports Commission on a full reconstruction of the intersection.
Closing Runway 12L-30R doesn’t occur often, so the design team completed several maintenance projects during the closure. Overall, the project adopted an aggressive schedule limited to 16 weeks to minimize airport impacts during certain weather conditions, requiring the contractors to work long hours and weekends. Considerable collaboration, precise design, and diligent construction management helped maintain ongoing airport operations and complete this project to foster a safer condition for passengers.
Snow Removal Equipment Building Wins Honor Award
We also received an Honor Award for our design of the Snow Removal Equipment Building at the Southwest Minnesota Regional Airport in Marshall, Minnesota. After completing a Master Plan for Southwest Minnesota Regional Airport, the City of Marshall identified a location for future terminal area development. The first project was a 7,500-SF snow removal equipment facility to store snow removal and lawn care equipment and raw materials, which is essential to maintaining runways and airport property. TKDA provided comprehensive planning, design, and construction phase services for the facility, featuring three vehicle/equipment bays, office and breakroom spaces, restrooms, mechanical and electrical rooms, and a storage mezzanine to maximize the use of interior space. By collaborating with City officials, the Airport Commission, and the FAA, TKDA prepared a funding plan outlining the funding source proportions and allocations. This facility marks a major investment in safety, efficiency, and growth for the region.
