A $9.8 million state grant will enable the expansion of cargo ramp positions as the Gary/Chicago International Airport moves forward on Phase 1 of its cargo expansion services. The work involves the construction of a dedicated cargo area on 25 acres on the airport’s west end.

The airport authority approved the contract modification with ramp contractor Superior Construction, of Gary, at its Wednesday meeting. Last month, the board awarded a $15 million contract to Superior for Phase 1 of the project.

Executive airport director Dan Vicari said the state grant will speed up the expansion, enabling eight wide-bodied ramp positions instead of three.

UPS, which leases space at the airport, will use the new ramp to expand its operations. It’s now based at the airport’s passenger terminal.

Ai

See Full Page