Morristown, New Jersey – Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) returned to Morristown Airport (KMMU) this week, operated by DM AIRPORTS, LTD., to see the progress that is being made in regards to important infrastructure and safety upgrades at the airport.
“As a former helicopter pilot, I understand the importance of a safe runway and landing approach,” said Rep. Sherrill, who is a graduate of the US Naval Academy and served in the Navy for almost 10 years as a helicopter pilot and Russian policy officer.
“It was great to be back at Morristown Airport to see the impressive progress that’s being made to upgrade the infrastructure at this critical transportation hub and economic driver in North Jersey. The federal funding supporting this project will help the airport continue to operate safely and remain competitive in today’s global economy.”
During the visit, Rep. Sherrill received a tour of MMU’s airfield to see the progress that is being made to modernize the airport through the Runway 5-23 Rehabilitation Project, which is primarily funded by the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Improvement Program. The Airport Improvement Program dollars come from the FAA’s Aviation Trust Fund generated through aviation-related revenues, separate from the General Fund.
“It was wonderful to welcome Rep. Sherrill back to Morristown Airport,” said Scott McMahon, Executive Director, DM AIRPORTS, LTD. “As we prepare to launch the next phase of modernization projects at our airport, we are grateful to have the partnership of the Federal Aviation Administration and the New Jersey Department of Transportation to help ensure that we can continue efficiently and effectively serving our community and benefiting the region for years to come.”
The rehabilitation project is being conducted in phases, and the next phase, Phase IX, is scheduled to begin July 10. Phase IX is scheduled to be completed by this fall, and the overall project is tentatively scheduled to be complete by 2028.
Among all the airports in the State of New Jersey, MMU plays an integral role in boosting New Jersey’s economy through its tenants and visitors, providing an estimated $187 million in total spending in the community. In addition, MMU helps attract and sustain economic growth in the region through its operations. For example, several large pharmaceutical, technology and communications companies in the area have aircraft at the airport.
“Morristown Airport has been an essential partner to Morris County,” said Morris County Commissioner Director John Krickus. “I am pleased to see the incredible progress that’s been made to improve safety and upgrade infrastructure at this vital economic asset to our region.”
“Morristown Airport has been an economic engine for North Jersey for many years, and thanks to these critical upgrades, we are ensuring it will continue to benefit our area,” said Craig Schlosser, President, Morris County Economic Development Alliance (MCEDAlliance) & Morris County Tourism Bureau and Managing Director, Morris County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC). “We look forward to partnering with Morristown Airport and its tenants to continue our efforts to boost the local economy.”
Business aircraft landing Runway 23 at MMU using the upgraded Medium Intensity Approach Lighting System (MALSR) installed during Phase VIII of the airport’s Runway 5-23 Rehabilitation Project in November 2022. Photo Credit: Karen Mancinelli/County of Morris