Interactive Study Area Map

Project Overview

Triangle North Executive Airport (LHZ) and the N.C. Department of Transportation are extending Runway 05/23 through the North Carolina State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP AV-5819.) This project is aligned with the FAA-approved Master Plan by extending the runway approximately 700 feet to improve airport operations and support regional economic development in Franklin County and the Research Triangle Region. The proposed improvements also include the realignment location of Airport Road, Mc Wilder Road, and Sam Horton Road, as well as the relocation of utilities, the airport's automated weather observing system, and update navigational systems and lighting infrastructure.

This infrastructure investment will allow the airport to meet FAA safety standards and accommodate future growth. This Runway extension project supports broader statewide efforts to improve transportation access and strengthen regional connectivity.

Project Highlights

Runway Extension: Adds 700 feet to Runway 5, improving safety and capacity for corporate and general aviation.

Road Realignment: Relocates Sam Horton Road, Mc Wilder Road and Airport Road out of the Runway Protection Zone (RPZ), meeting FAA safety standards and enabling future growth.

Infrastructure Expansion: Unlocks space for new box hangars, T-hangars, and apron tie-downs to meet rising demand from aircraft owners and business users.

Business Park Access: Enhances road access to Triangle North Franklin Business Park, supporting regional development and investment.

Economic Impact: Builds on the airport's $85.55 million+ annual contribution to North Carolina's economy, supporting over 395 jobs and generating $4.33 million in tax revenue.

Strategic Location: Strengthens LHZ's role as a gateway to the Research Triangle Region, attracting new users, enhancing the airfield, and expanding aviation services.

Project History

The runway extension project at Triangle North Executive Airport is prioritized in the airport’s FAA-approved Master Layout Plan, which outlines a 20-year vision for growth and safety. Originally scheduled to begin in 2021, the project was delayed due to budget constraints but has since been reprogrammed for construction funding in 2031. The plan calls for relocating roads and infrastructure within the Runway Protection Zone to enable a 700-foot extension and support future hangar development, aligning with regional transportation and stimulating economic impact.

Project Maps

Map 1

To view map please click here

 

 

 

Map 2

Alternative 1: Realign Sam Horton Road to connect with MC Wilder Road to the east of the Airport

To view map please click here.

 

 

 

Question title

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Map 3

Alternative 2: Cul de sac on Sam Horton Road east of the airport

To view map please click here.

 

 

 

Question title

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Typical Section

 

Question title

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Project Funding:

 Activity

 Estimated Costs*

Project Development and Design

$        770,000

Property Acquistion

$     3.5 Million

Construction

$   26.0 Million

Total cost

 $  30.3 Million

*Costs shown are estimates and are subject to change.

Based on current Highway Fund Bridge Replacement Program Statewide Funds.

Project Timeline:

 Activity

Anticipated Date*

Public Meeting #1

November 12, 2025

Public Comment Period Ends

December 12, 2025

Public Meeting #2

Spring 2026

Final Environmental Assessment DocumentationSummer 2026

 

*Future dates subject to change

Public Meeting #1 November 12

Franklin Plaza, Louisburg, 5-7 pm

Question title

Would you like to be added to the project email list for updates?

Project Comments

NCDOT accepts comments throughout all phases of project development.  

All comments will be taken into consideration, and carry equal weight, regardless of submittal method.

To submit comments for consideration during the current phase of project development,

please submit before December 12, 2025.


The public is encouraged to leave comments using this webpage, email, or phone number:

Email: lhz-runway-extension@publicinput.com

Phone Number:  984-205-6615    enter project code 9931 to leave a message

PROJECT CONTACT INFORMATION 

Bo Carson

Airport Director

Triangle North Executive Airport

bcarson@franklincountync.gov

919-496-1234

440 Airport Road

Louisburg, NC 27549

Title VI Feedback

To ensure we’re hearing from a broad set of voices, would you be willing to share (completely anonymously) some information about yourself?

If so, please click here NCDOT - Title VI Form 2024 

RESOURCES FOR PROPERTY OWNERS 


Although the N.C. Department of Transportation works to minimize the number of homes and businesses displaced by a road project, it is inevitable, in many cases, that a certain amount of private property is needed. The following information explains right of way acquisition and answers questions about the process.  

     
Right-of-Way Brochure Single Page Layout      Folleto del Proceso de Adquisición de Bienes Raíces
Right-of-Way Frequently Asked Questions

Right of way Acquisition Process Videos

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