Gary-Chicago Airport opens newly expanded runway

GARY, Ind. (WLS) -- A newly expanded runway at the Gary-Chicago International Airport could have a big impact on the economy of northwest Indiana.

There was a celebration Friday as the new runway was officially opened. It was extended to comply with new safety regulations.

Gary's Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson says this means the airport can now serve more types of aircraft.

The expanded airport is also expected to provide around 2,000 new jobs with an economic impact of more than half a billion dollars.

Gary Airport officials say they plan to re-establish commercial service by the year 2017. They also want to invest in infrastructure around the airport, including new roads and a passenger rail station.