A significant airfield infrastructure project is underway at Coast Guard Base Elizabeth City as the U.S. Coast Guard begins a $32 million effort to restore Runway 1-19. The investment is intended to strengthen operational readiness and modernize aviation infrastructure at one of the Coast Guard's busiest aviation facilities on the East Coast.
The project restores a crosswind runway that has been unavailable for Coast Guard aircraft operations since 2008, providing additional operational capacity for military and joint-use aviation activities.
The recapitalization project includes complete reconstruction of Runway 1-19, rehabilitation of associated taxiways, installation of modern airfield lighting systems, and improvements designed to enhance long-term operational resilience.
RQ Construction was awarded the construction contract in August 2025 and is carrying out the project under the oversight of the Coast Guard's Facilities Design and Construction Center in coordination with Air Station Elizabeth City's airfield management team.
Construction is expected to continue through 2027, with the existing primary runway remaining fully operational throughout the project to avoid disruptions to flight operations.
Once completed, the restored runway will provide additional crosswind capability, helping reduce operational constraints during adverse weather while supporting pilot training, aircraft maintenance, testing activities, and mission readiness.
The upgraded infrastructure will also improve operational flexibility for Coast Guard aviation assets operating throughout the East Coast, North Atlantic, Caribbean, and other mission areas.
Base Elizabeth City supports multiple Coast Guard aviation organizations and shares its airfield with Elizabeth City Regional Airport, which also serves civilian aviation and flight training activities.
Airfield modernization projects remain a critical component of federal infrastructure investment supporting military and emergency response operations. For construction owners, contractors, and infrastructure specialists, projects such as the Runway 1-19 reconstruction highlight continued opportunities in aviation infrastructure, airfield paving, lighting systems, heavy civil construction, and resilient transportation facilities.
Source: United States Coast Guard News.
