Runway Extension Could Mean Higher Tower

The FAA could force Pitkin County to build a 188-foot airport control tower to enable air traffic controllers to see the end of the extended Sardy Field runway.  The new tower would be four times the height of the current 47-foot facility.

The official decision has not been made and county official expect a opposition from neighboring property owners.  The decision is not expected until sometime in early 2009.  Alternative such as closed circuit television monitors and a version on virtual reality are being considered by the FAA, but the current configurations do not meet the sight/height safety requirements enforced by the FAA.