Air Traffic Control Tower Project - Martin State Airport

About the Project

Martin State Airport (MTN) is enhancing aviation safety and operational efficiency with the construction of a new air traffic control tower. The $22.2 million investment underscores the state’s commitment to modernizing critical infrastructure and supporting the long-term growth of the region’s aviation system. The facility will be equipped with modern infrastructure and technology to support future advancements in air traffic management.

The new tower will replace the existing 1942 structure one of the oldest active control towers in the country. It will be strategically located in a midfield position for enhanced visibility. The facility will significantly improve safety, efficiency, and line of sight for air traffic personnel.

Project Overview

Design

The new air traffic control tower at Martin State Airport will serve as a modern architectural landmark, designed to complement the existing Administration Building.

One of the most significant improvements is the tower’s elevated position, which will provide air traffic controllers with a clear, unobstructed view of the entire airfield. This enhanced visibility will greatly improve airfield safety and situational awareness.

Construction will take place outside of the runway and taxiway safety areas, minimizing impacts to airport tenants and aeronautical users throughout the project.

The project is expected to reach substantial completion by September 2026.

Timeline

May 2025 – Notice to Proceed granted to Towson Mechanical Inc.
September 2026 – Project Substantial completion

Project Timeline

Date	Project Details
January 2024	January 22, 2024: Notice to Proceeded granted to P.F. Flanigan & Sons, Inc.
April 1, 2024	Night closures begin.
July 6 – 27, 2024	Extended runway closure. Sunset to sunrise runway and taxiway closure resume until September.
September 2024	Substantial completion targeted for September 30, 2024.
October 2024	Full project completion anticipated by October 31, 2024.

Project Updates

Taxiway A and Taxiway T between Taxiway A and the Maryland Air National Guard Ramp temporarily closed
Taxiway D closed permanently
Runway 15-33 and taxiways will close from sunset to sunrise daily from June 8 to July 5, 2024.
Taxiway S, between Runway 15-33 and Taxiway F, closed permanently on May 28, 2024.
Night closures resume sunset to sunrise daily from July 27th to September 30th
21-day Extended Closure Progress – Week 1

Runway

- 14 new propane (bird Cannons) installed

- Light base and conduit work for edge lighting at Taxiways Charlie and Foxtrot

- Continuing concrete placement for Taxiways A and T

- Almost 20,000 tons of asphalt placed, from Runway 15 end to Runway 33 end, for 150’ Runway width
Week 2 & 3 Updates
- The runway width has been reduced to 150' with 15' shoulders, the runway length remains at 6,997'.
- Runway surface has been paved with asphalt.
- New runway markings have been applied.
- New runway signage has been installed.
- New runway threshold lights have been added.
- Taxiway C has been realigned.
- Taxiway B permanently closed.
Parking Apron Update

The parking apron between the Administration Building (airside) and Taxiway C (formerly the 'triangle') is no longer available for aircraft parking or passenger drop-off/pick-up due to compliance with taxiway safety area requirements.
August & September Enhancements
- New runway edge lighting installed and fully operational.
- Runway grooving has been completed.