The F-35 Ramp and Security Upgrade, Main Base Runway, Phase 4 – Edwards Air Force Base – a Design-Build project – completed the replacement of the Runway Wings and Keel Section, and constructed a new parking ramp for eight F-35 Joint Strike Fighter aircraft.

The project scope included removal and replacement of 32,540 sy of 12.5” and 20.5” PCC over 8” rigid base on the runway, with 21,230 sy of 12.5” PCC and 5,780 sy of 6” PCC shoulders over 8” rigid base for the ramp, a redesign of traditional asphalt shoulders. Other work included airfield electrical, structure adjustments, high security fencing, tie downs, monitoring well adjustments, blast deflector installation, observation tower demolition and miscellaneous structural removals.

Prior to construction, flight operations were moved from the Main Runway to the parallel Inside Runway, requiring relocation of the BAK-12 barrier system, airfield lighting and tower lighting control.

A LEED Silver rating was achieved, with required points exceeded by using local materials, recycled and on-site materials, and project design. A great deal of care was taken to protect the sensitive desert environment, any disturbance would result in a lengthy recovery. All employees underwent environmental training including identification of local sensitive biological components. Completed ahead of schedule with zero accidents, the project received the top mark in all 32 categories on which the Owner evaluates Contractors.

Design-Build is rarely used by the Department of Defense for smaller projects. This project demonstrated the feasibility of taking the design-build delivery system down to a project this size and the value that a design-build project can deliver.
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