Florida’s Boca Raton Airport has completed a major safety upgrade by adding an engineered materials arresting system (EMAS) at the departure end of 6,273-foot Runway 23. A similar installation on the opposite end (Runway 5) was completed in July 2016. The airport is one of only a few dedicated general aviation airports to acquire the system.

“EMAS is an investment in the future of our airport and the safety of everyone who uses it,” said Clara Bennett, the airport’s executive director. “This advancement further solidifies the role of the airport as a premier general aviation facility serving South Florida communities.”

The current project also included LED runway end identifier lights; relocation of threshold light assemblies; and a touchscreen airfield lighting control and monitoring system for the air traffic control tower and the airfield’s electrical vault.

The airport is also set to begin a second phase of rehabilitation on its control tower. Last year’s Phase I consisted of updating the roof, HVAC, plumbing, and fire-control system. This next stage, which will be completed this year, will include replacing the windows and fixtures in the cab and training room. Eighty percent of the nearly $300,000 project will be covered by Florida DOT grants, with the remainder from the airport’s capital improvement fund.