(NewsNation) — A closed runway that has contributed to travel delays at Newark Liberty International Airport will reopen Monday, 13 days ahead of schedule.
In a press conference, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said there is work being done to improve communications at the airport and to train more air traffic controllers to work in the region.
At 11,000 feet long, Runway 4L-22R has been undergoing rehabilitation after signs of wear. The Federal Aviation Administration has now deemed it safe for travel.
The runway was last rehabilitated in 2014, according to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and was due for more work as runways are typically rehabilitated about every 10 years.
The project cost $121 million and began in early March, with work including re-paving the runway surface, updating lighting, improving airfield signs, installing new underground electrical infrastructure and improving drainage.
The runway was fully shut down on April 15 to accommodate construction. It will continue to be closed on nights and weekends to be sure it is fully rehabilitated by the end of the year.
The runway reopening may ease some of the congestion at Newark airport, but it is not the only factor in delays.
Air traffic controllers at the airport have experienced multiple communications blackouts because of equipment failure, which led to the FAA reducing the number of flights to the airport.
The airport has also suffered from a shortage of air traffic controllers, prompting one expert to warn travelers to avoid flying in or out of Newark.