SUBJECT
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Consideration to authorize the City Manager to enter into a professional services agreement with RS&H, Inc., San Antonio, TX in an amount not to exceed $1,266,373.56, to provide design phase services for the demolition of the existing Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS) and Extension of Runway 18R at the Laredo International Airport. Funding is available through the Laredo International Airport Operation Fund and will be reimbursed through a future FAA Grant #108 which shall cover 90% of the cost with a local match of 10% .
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VIVA LAREDO PLAN ALIGNMENT
Alignment Rating: Strong
Supporting goal(s)/policy(ies):
Goal 4.15: Enable the safe and efficient movement of goods via rail, truck, and air.
Summary of alignment:
This project strongly aligns with the Viva Laredo Plan by enabling the safe and efficient movement of goods and aircraft via air transportation. The project removes deteriorated infrastructure that poses operational risks, maintains FAA-compliant runway safety requirements, improves airfield operational efficiency through runway and taxiway enhancements, and preserves the long-term functionality of Laredo International Airport as a critical component of the City's international transportation and logistics network.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION
July 21, 2026 - Approval to award professional services contract to RS&H Inc., San Antonio, TX, for an environmental assessment for the removal of the EMAS.
BACKGROUND
The City of Laredo owns and operates the Laredo International Airport (LRD). LRD has selected RS&H Inc. (“RS&H” or “Consultant”) to provide design phase services for a Runway 18R runway extension and EMAS demolition project.
The Airport needs to remove the existing Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS) on Runway 36L. The existing EMAS satisfied the safety length requirement for the current aircraft fleet mix, however, the EMAS has reached the end of its life and is in poor condition. In order to remain compliant with FAA regulations, the airport needs to take the EMAS out of service and implement temporary declared distances on Runway 18R.
The project will consist of design of the EMAS removal on Runway 36L end and replace with a blast pad. Additionally, design of Runway 18R 471' extension, with a full strength pavement section consisting of 16" of P-501 concrete pavement on 5" of asphalt base course, on 6" of aggregate base course with asphalt pavement shoulders. Design of the extension of Taxiway G and new end connector Taxiway G1 are also included in the project. The project also includes design of associated drainage improvements, pavement markings, airfield lighting and signs. Also, new MALSR stations will be installed within the new grading limits of the runway extension. The design will meet FAA standards. The project also includes the design of one bid alternate that replaces the asphalt shoulders with a 12" concrete section.
The anticipated benefits of this project include the following:
1) Improve airfield safety and operational efficiency by eliminating Foreign Object Debris (FOD) generated by the deteriorating EMAS.
2) Maintain compliance with runway length requirements for the existing aircraft fleet mix through a 471-foot extension of Runway 18R.
3) Compensate for the removal of the EMAS by providing the necessary runway safety length, supporting continued safe and reliable aircraft operations.
4) Reduce maintenance concerns and operational disruptions associated with the deteriorated EMAS while enhancing.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Staff recommends the approval of this motion.
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Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Year: 2026
Budgeted Y/N?: Click or tap here to enter text.
Source of Funds: Laredo International Airport Operation Fund
Account #: 242-3605-583-5526
Change Order: Exceeds 25% Y/N: N.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
Funding of $1,266,373.56 is available under Airport Operation Fund (Consultant Fees)
Account No. 242-3605-583-5526.
Project will be reimbursed through a future FAA Grant (Grant 108), which shall cover 90% of the cost ($2,102,868) with a local match of 10% ($110,677).