PHOTO: Citing the need to provide a safer landing alternative for smaller aircraft during adverse wind and weather conditions, Ocean County Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari joined with representatives from the Federal Aviation Administration, Berkeley Township Mayor Carmen F. Amato Jr. and members of the Township Council, pilots, members of the Ocean County Aviation Advisory Committee, Lenny Boyd, owner of Ocean Aire, the fixed base operator a the Ocean County Airport and a host of other guests and community members in celebrating the grand opening of a new Crosswind runway at the Ocean County Airport, Berkeley Township.

The Crosswind runway is about 3,400 feet. It is the newest runway constructed in New Jersey in the last 30 years. The airport is used for more than just private planes. It serves an important role when it comes to public safety, and housing aircraft that are used by public safety agencies.

In addition to the runway construction, the project included extensive habitat and environmental studies which were used to secure a Pinelands permit in order to advance the runway work. The project resulted in significant improvements to the airpark at a minimal cost to the County.

Photographed from left to right cutting the ribbon marking the completion of the runway are Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari, who serves as liaison to the airport, Berkeley Township Mayor Carmen F. Amato Jr., David J. Mckeon, Director of the Ocean County Department of Planning, Lori Pagnanelli, Airport District Office, Manager, off the FAA Harrisburg and Lori Ledebohm, Community Planner/PFC, of the FAA.

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