RESPEC PROJECT

Since 2005, our dedicated efforts in Newtok and Mertarvik have been instrumental in addressing the community’s infrastructure needs, particularly in the relocation and development of airport facilities. Our work has been characterized by a deep commitment to community collaboration and a focus on delivering tailored, cost-effective solutions. 

Our involvement has spanned from the initial 2008 Reconnaissance Study, which required meticulous coordination and local engagement for site evaluations, to the 2012 Mertarvik Airport Site Selection Study that refined earlier recommendations and culminated in a single-runway design. The 2014 Mertarvik Airport Layout Plan further evolved to optimize the runway, balancing cost and footprint considerations, which led to a revised access route that aligned with stakeholder preferences. Throughout these stages, we have actively engaged with the Newtok Planning Group to define project goals, address community concerns, and establish benchmarks for the transition and implementation of the airport relocation. 

Our approach has been multifaceted, involving multiple term contract task orders, a range of discipline-specific consultants, and continuous coordination with the Newtok Planning Group. This collaborative stance has facilitated the successful integration of the community’s needs and cultural nuances into our work and ensured that the resulting infrastructure supports the community’s transition and growth. The project’s success showcases our ability to deliver comprehensive, culturally sensitive solutions that meet the evolving needs of the Newtok and Mertarvik communities.