GOSHEN, Ind. — A major federal investment is setting the stage for the next era of growth at Goshen Municipal Airport as runway closures clear the way for long-awaited upgrades.
Crews closed Runways 09-27 and 05-23 on April 6 as construction began on a runway reconstruction project backed by more than $5 million in Federal Aviation Administration funding. The work positions the airport for stronger operations, improved safety and expanded economic impact.
The investment includes a $4.3 million FAA discretionary grant for runway reconstruction and $799,920 for a future taxi lane “C” extension. FAA discretionary grants are highly competitive and awarded to projects that strengthen safety, infrastructure and national aviation capacity. Together, the funding ranks among the largest FAA investments in a general aviation airport in Indiana this year.
Construction crews from Phend & Brown will complete milling, patching, crack repair, resurfacing and markings in two phases. The primary runway is expected to reopen May 22, with final work extending into June.
“Goshen Municipal Airport plays a vital role in supporting our local economy and connecting our community to broader opportunities,” Airport Manager Randy Sharkey said. “We are grateful for this federal investment and the opportunity it creates to strengthen our infrastructure and expand our impact.”
Runway upgrades at Goshen Municipal Airport support long-term growth
The project marks the first major runway reconstruction since 1990. Crews will mill more than 70,000 square yards of pavement and install nearly 15,000 tons of new asphalt.
The improvements strengthen reliability and safety while preparing the airport for increased traffic and investment. The taxi lane “C” extension will improve access to the terminal ramp and create new opportunities for additional corporate tenants and long-term leases.
Goshen Municipal Airport ranks as the seventh busiest airport in Indiana, averaging more than 31,000 operations each year and supporting about 65 based aircraft and multiple aviation partners. Its annual economic impact already reaches $26 million, with room to grow as infrastructure improves.
“While the runway rehabilitation requires a temporary suspension of flight operations, these upgrades will strengthen safety, reliability and capacity,” Sharkey said. “This investment positions us to support continued growth, expand services and deliver a higher level of service to our users and partners.”
Beyond the runway: STAY Indiana airplane build expands student aviation pathways
Even as construction reshapes the runway, Goshen Municipal Airport continues to connect students with hands-on aviation opportunities.
Launched in August 2025, the STAY Indiana airplane build program brings more than 20 students together each week to assemble an aircraft alongside mentors, introducing aviation, engineering and skilled trades through partnerships with Goshen Community Schools, Boys & Girls Club of Elkhart County, ViewRail and the City of Goshen.