Client: Chicago Department of Aviation

Location: Chicago, IL

An aircraft deicing facility is helping carriers cycle gates more quickly during the winter months by moving the crucial pre-flight de-icing process away from the terminal to the west side of the airport. As a result, more gates would be available resulting in reduced delays for the flying public.
Work for the construction of this project started with excavation followed by the installation of electrical and communication duct banks, underdrains, and grading. Temporary and permanent erosion control measures prevented sediment, mud, and debris from being washed away from the site. Drainage appurtenances included the sanitary sewer, as well as the 12-inch and 20-inch watermains. Fire hydrant connections were also established.
Paving was completed for both the apron and the taxiway. Electrical service provided power for lighting of the taxiway and the apron, as well as for message boards and high mast lights. Work also included relocation of the AOA fence and construction of the relocated perimeter road. Parking lot paving, lighting and pavement marking were also involved. Additionally, two ground service equipment areas were constructed for United Airlines and American Airlines.
For the ramp tower, work began with the construction of foundation then the building, followed by full MEP (HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, electrical) installation. Unique features included installation and termination of equipment for the Airfield Lighting Control System (ALCS), the SMS system, and the de-icing pad lighting system. Cabling for these systems was run from the South Airfield Lighting Control Vault, through the existing ductbank, to the termination locations within the Central Deicing Facility – Ramp Tower.