As reconstruction of Lincoln Airport’s (lincolnairport.com) historic Runway 18/36 continues, community members have a unique opportunity to preserve a tangible piece of local aviation history.
Through a partnership with a local organization, authentic sections of concrete removed from Runway 18/36 have been transformed into commemorative keepsakes, each mounted on a handcrafted wood base with a custom plaque.
Originally constructed in the early 1950s, Runway 18/36 has served Lincoln for more than 70 years. Stretching 12,901 feet, it is one of the longest commercial service runways in the Midwest and has supported military operations, commercial air service, business aviation, emergency response and countless flights connecting Lincoln to destinations around the world.
“Runway 18/36 has connected generations of travelers, supported our military partners and played an important role in Lincoln’s growth,” said Chad Lay, Director of Planning and Development at the Lincoln Airport. “While we’re building for the future, it’s equally important to preserve and celebrate where we’ve been.”
The Lincoln Airport Authority is not selling the keepsakes. Instead, the Airport partnered with a local organization to make the commemorative pieces available to the public. A portion of every purchase will be donated back to the Lincoln Airport Authority to support a future aviation-themed public art exhibit at the airport.
Quantities are limited and available only while supplies last. Community members interested in reserving one can pre-order at: remembering-rwy-1836.square.site.