‘It’s really just about making it higher’: Gary airport begins work on new 100-foot tower, tell me about this news in (https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/09/18/gary-airport-new-100-foot-tower/)
18-09-2026
The news reports on the official groundbreaking for a new air traffic control tower at the Gary/Chicago International Airport (GCIA).
Key details of the story include:
Height and Visibility: The project replaces the existing control tower, which has been in operation since 1972 and stands only around 45 to 50 feet tall. The new facility will reach approximately 100 feet (about 50 feet taller than the current structure). As the quote highlights, increasing the height is essential because the airport has expanded its runways and cargo facilities over recent years, and controllers needed better line-of-sight across the entire airfield.
Cost and Funding: The project is valued at roughly $18.3 million. Funding was finalized through a combination of federal grants, including $10 million from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and $8.3 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Modern Upgrades: Alongside improved sightlines, the new facility will incorporate modern communications gear, advanced radar systems, and updated navigation technologies to replace decades-old systems.
Timeline and Impact: Construction is underway following the September 2026 groundbreaking, with the new tower slated to become fully operational by late 2027. Local leaders, including Gary Mayor Eddie Melton and U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan, view the tower as a critical anchor for expanding cargo traffic and eventually attracting scheduled commercial passenger airlines back to the airport.