McChord Field's 10,100-foot runway is getting a much-needed make-over.

In two separate reconstruction projects being conducted simultaneously, cracked pavement will be replaced as airfield circuitry, lighting and signage are upgraded.

"We're very excited about this project because it means continued safe operational capability for our base, our aircraft and our personnel," said a public affairs official.

The runway was last worked on in 2004.

McChord Field is home to the 62nd Airlift Wing; its Reserve partner, the 446th Airlift Wing; and to 50 C-17 Globemaster IIIs. Its primary mission is global strategic airlift.

The work began March 1 and is slated to be completed June 5. The end date could change should contractors encounter poor weather or construction delays.

While the work is completed, McChord Field will continue its fixed wing operations from March Air Reserve Base, California; Travis Air Force Base, California; and Fairchild Air Force Base.

Locally, Gray Army Field will serve as a staging point for five C-17s which will be utilized for shuttle operations and local training opportunities. 

Officials also pointed out that all aircraft will continue to meet Air Mobility Command's global mission requirements, to include contingency and humanitarian operations.

Planning for the wings' flight operations and coordination will continue as normal from McChord Field during the reconstruction.

The total cost for the reconstruction project is almost $27 million.

For more information, contact the 62nd Airlift Wing's Public Affairs office at 253.982.5638 or 62aw.pa.mail@us.af.mil.