Granite Takes Off with San Francisco Taxiway Rehabilitation Project
In a strategic move that highlights both operational foresight and infrastructure resilience, Granite has secured a $26 million contract to revitalise critical taxiways at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). This ambitious project, part of the airport’s sweeping Capital Improvement Program (CIP), underscores SFO’s commitment to maintaining world-class facilities while supporting sustainable growth in air travel.
Funded by SFO itself, the project will focus on rehabilitating Taxiway Z and part of Taxiway S. These corridors serve as essential arteries for aircraft manoeuvring between terminals, maintenance zones, and cargo hubs. The refurbishment aims to keep the airport in top operational shape and support safe and efficient ground movement.
Reinforcing Safety and Efficiency
The importance of these upgrades can’t be overstated. Taxiway Z in particular sees a high volume of daily aircraft movements. Without regular maintenance and modernisation, wear and tear could compromise safety and delay operations.
Brent Fogg, Granite’s Vice President of Regional Operations, reflected on the significance: “We are excited to be part of this critical infrastructure project at SFO. Our collaboration with SFO on the Taxiway Z Rehabilitation Project underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional projects and advancing the safety and efficiency of airport operations.”
What the Project Entails
The rehabilitation goes beyond surface repaving. Here’s a closer look at the planned improvements:
- Full-depth reconstruction of asphalt concrete pavement
- Replacement of outdated lighting with energy-efficient LED fixtures
- Modernisation of signage systems
- Upgrade of a 12kV electrical duct bank
- Enhanced pavement markings
- Improved drainage systems
These elements are more than cosmetic. Each upgrade is designed to bolster the airport’s safety protocols, reduce maintenance needs, and future-proof the taxiway network for upcoming aviation demands.
Capital Improvement Program: Modernisation on a Mission
This project slots neatly into SFO’s broader Capital Improvement Program, a multi-billion-dollar master plan aimed at transforming the airport’s infrastructure. The initiative includes upgrades to runways, terminals, baggage systems, and of course, taxiways.
It also aligns with SFO’s “Delivering Exceptional Projects” mantra—a mission that champions Trust, Transparency, Early Contractor Collaboration, and Alternate Delivery methods. Granite’s approach to working closely with stakeholders from the outset fits hand-in-glove with this ethos.
Sustainable Supply Chain and Regional Advantage
Proximity matters in construction logistics, and Granite is making the most of its local resources. The firm’s Santa Clara hot mix plant, located within striking distance of the airport, will supply a hefty 24,105 tons of Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA).
This local sourcing ensures reduced transport emissions, shorter delivery windows, and ultimately, better control over quality and timelines. It’s a model of regional sustainability that could set a benchmark for other urban infrastructure projects.
Timeline and Expectations
Set to break ground in August 2025, the project is expected to reach completion by November 2025—a tight schedule given the scope. But Granite’s track record suggests they’re up for the challenge.
As a company incorporated in 1922, Granite brings more than a century of expertise to the table. With deep experience across civil construction sectors and a commitment to safety, ethics, and sustainability, the firm is uniquely positioned to deliver on this high-stakes project.
Strategic Partnerships and Future Collaboration
This project could be the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Granite’s role at SFO. By aligning with the airport’s long-term vision, Granite is positioning itself as a go-to contractor for future Alternate Procurement Projects.
Given the scale and complexity of the airport’s ongoing upgrades, this initial contract may well open the door to further collaborations down the line.
Why This Matters to the Industry
Airport infrastructure is no small matter. It sits at the nexus of transportation, security, and economic vitality. Investments like these not only enhance passenger experiences but also serve as economic multipliers, generating jobs, attracting businesses, and boosting regional competitiveness.
In a post-pandemic world where travel is rapidly rebounding, airports like SFO must double down on future-proofing their assets. And with construction giants like Granite onboard, they’re well-equipped to do just that.
Taking Infrastructure to New Heights
Granite’s partnership with SFO to upgrade Taxiway Z and S isn’t just about laying asphalt. It’s about laying the groundwork for a safer, smarter, and more sustainable future in air travel. If all goes according to plan, the project will serve as a shining example of how public-private partnerships can deliver real value through intelligent design, meticulous execution, and community-first thinking.
