approximately 65% of its security fences while installing new electric gate operators and closedcircuit television systems at access points. Workers are implementing double-gate systems at entry and exit points to prevent unauthorized access breaches. The phased approach allows continuous airport operations while crews install new fencing offset by one foot from existing barriers before removing the old infrastructure. SUSTAINABILITY AT THE FOREFRONT Environmental responsibility drives every major project at Northeast Philadelphia Airport, where green building practices have evolved from optional considerations to mandatory design elements. The airport’s administrative building renovation represents the most visible example of this shift, targeting LEED Gold certification that would mark a first for the Philadelphia airport system. “We’re actually going to be using geothermal heating and cooling systems, and we’re going for LEED Gold certification on the building,” Brewer explains.“We’re having a meeting with the four different contractors to discuss everything that we can to try to get the Gold LEED certification, which would be the first building at PHL or PNE that got that certification. So, we’re a little excited about that.” The geothermal investment illustrates longterm operational thinking rather than simple environmental messaging. “Lower operating costs means a little expensive on the front end, but save money on the back end,” Brewer notes. The new building will feature seven separate climate zones, eliminating the current single-thermostat system that creates workplace conflicts.“Right now, we have one thermostat and there’s always the thermostat tug of war going on. Basically, each office, each area in the building will be able to have its own thermostat.” Sustainability initiatives encompass all construction projects. The airport achieved Silver Envision certification on Lima Package 2 last year, supported by a dedicated sustainability manager from Philadelphia International Airport who participates in all design meetings.This systematic integration of environmental standards into airport infrastructure projects aligns with broader industry trends toward carbon reduction and operational efficiency in aviation facilities nationwide. PREPARING FOR PHILADELPHIA’S MILESTONE YEAR Philadelphia’s upcoming anniversary celebrations and major sporting events position 2026 as a pivotal year for regional aviation, with Northeast Philadelphia Airport preparing for unprecedented traffic demands. The convergence of high-profile occasions creates unique operational challenges 71 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02 NORTHEAST PHILADELPHIA AIRPORT
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx