Paul A. Karas, Airport Director
219-949-4902
pkaras@219.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FAA Approves Gary/Chicago Airport Growth Plan

Gary, March 17, 2005 - Gary/Chicago International Airport received the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval to proceed with its proposed expansion plans with the signing of a Record of Decision regarding the airport's environmental impact statement.

Since 2002, the Airport Master Plan and the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) disclosure documents have been under review by the FAA. Gary Mayor Scott L. King states, "This is a great accomplishment for the Airport. The FAA approval means that based on their review we have a sound plan in the areas of the environment, capacity needs, practicality of expanding the airport, and other key issues. We can move forward with the targeted Gary/Chicago Airport expansion and economic development in south Chicagoland."

The next steps for the Gary/Chicago International Airport Authority are to now start the relocation of the EJ&E Railroad and land acquisition. The Airport has begun to receive money for this work and additional federal and state support are anticipated.

Congressman Pete Visclosky adds, "The Gary/Chicago Airport is a key component to economic opportunities in Northwest Indiana, and today's announcement is great news. Our region's long-term economic vitality needs economic engines to propel it forward, and the Gary/Chicago Airport is just that."

"With this approved study, the Gary/Chicago Airport can aggressively seek out funding with the ability to start construction immediately," Senator Bayh said. "Today's announcement clears the way for the airport to begin acting on its master plan and gives it an important leg up on becoming the third major airport in the area. This is the green light we've been waiting for and I look forward to continuing to work with Senator Lugar, Congressman Visclosky and Gary/Chicago Airport officials to accomplish the goals outlined in the airport's master plan."