The Gary/Chicago International Airport is undergoing significant upgrades with the construction of a new air traffic control tower. This move addresses a longstanding issue that emerged with the opening of the airport’s expanded runway 11 years ago. The Executive Director, Dan Vicari, emphasized that the existing 54-year-old, 50-foot tower falls short in providing air traffic controllers with optimal visibility for incoming flights on the extended runway.
Plans for a modern tower were set into motion with groundbreaking on September 18, 2026. The new tower, 50 feet taller than its predecessor, is designed to enhance visibility across the entire runway, thus improving the overall operations. Vicari highlighted that this project marks the culmination of years of planning and investments.
The funding for the new tower was acquired in stages. In 2024, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) awarded a $1.7 million grant for design and engineering, selecting 20 airports out of 80 applicants. Construction funding included a $10 million FAA grant in May, followed by a final $8.3 million grant last month. A construction contract worth $16 million was awarded to Larson-Danielson Construction of LaPorte to undertake the building of the new tower.
Vicari noted the importance of this tower. “The new air traffic control tower will provide the modern infrastructure needed to support future aviation growth.” He stressed that it will boost safety, improve operational efficiency, and ensure the airport’s role as a key economic driver for Northwest Indiana and the Chicago region.
Vanessa Allen-McCloud, a member of the airport authority, shared her perspective on the process, emphasizing the importance of strategic investments. She remarked that while others may see a building, she sees the result of years of planning, enduring partnerships, and substantial investment in the region.
The airport’s development isn’t limited to the tower. Recently, it inaugurated a new $24 million, 55-acre air cargo campus. Currently occupied by UPS, the campus will soon house a $60 million FedEx distribution center north of the airport.
Currently, six controllers staff the existing tower, operating daily between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. The new tower will offer improved facilities, including conference rooms, offices, restrooms, a break room, and a mechanical room. Once operational, the old tower will be demolished. With these advancements, the Gary/Chicago International Airport continues to strengthen its infrastructure and regional significance.