Mansfield Airport Commission votes to remove displaced threshold, relocate PAPI on Runway 32 during reconstruction

The Mansfield Airport Commission voted 4-0 on Feb. 9, 2026 to remove the displaced threshold and relocate the PAPI (precision approach path indicator) lights on the approach to Runway 32 as part of the planned runway reconstruction project.

The decision followed a report from Matt Caron of Gale Associates, who joined the meeting by telephone to update the commission on multiple ongoing projects, including the Runway 32 avigation easement acquisition and the construction-phase plans for the Reconstruction of Runway 14-32 and Taxiway A. Caron presented two options for updating FAA approach procedures for Runway 32: (1) remove the displaced threshold and relocate the PAPI as a concurrent part of the upcoming runway reconstruction, or (2) delay those changes until after reconstruction is complete.

The commission chose the first option in a motion by Martin Fox, seconded by Bryan Duarte. The motion passed unanimously with a 4-0 vote. Commissioners voting yes, as recorded in the minutes, were Joel Brandwine, Bryan Duarte, Mr. Buja, and Martin Fox. The minutes do not indicate any members voting no or abstaining.

The change is recorded in the commission's engineer project list alongside other work items including a wildlife hazard assessment and design for wildlife perimeter fencing. The motion directs that removal of the displaced threshold and relocation of PAPI lights be completed as a concurrent element of the runway reconstruction project; the minutes do not specify a construction schedule or contractor. The project is referenced with AIP numbers in the engineer's report but the minutes do not provide final funding or contract-authority details.

Next steps recorded in the minutes: the commission will proceed with engineering and construction-phase coordination; the minutes do not state definitive dates for work or when the FAA will issue revised approach procedures.