Mustang Beach Airport

Project Background

Mustang Beach Airport in Port Aransas, TX, recently completed expansions that will improve safety and support future growth. The airport needed more hangar space, improved runway safety, and airplane parking. The project involved extending the existing runway and taxiways, enlarging the aircraft apron, improving drainage systems, and updating airfield lighting. 

HVJ Associates was chosen by AECOM, the project’s primary consultant, to deliver construction materials engineering and testing (CoMET) services. We were selected because of our extensive experience in aviation and TxDOT-related projects and our track record of managing complex project schedules. Our work included field density testing, soil testing, asphalt and concrete testing, laboratory analyses, and coordinating testing responsibilities among contractors and agencies.

The Challenge

The project faced several logistical and coordination-related challenges. Multiple phases of construction were taking place on an active airfield. We had to coordinate testing responsibilities and timing among the contractor, client, and inspection teams. Tight schedules, weather-related delays, and limited site access increased the complexity of the testing process. It required careful planning and real-time problem-solving to keep testing aligned with the construction sequence and ensure compliance with TxDOT and FAA standards.

The Goals

We needed to address site-related logistical challenges to provide accurate testing at the right time, as necessitated by continuous construction progress. We needed to confirm that all construction materials—soil, asphalt, and concrete—met specific project specifications and quality standards and perform these tests. Our CoMET services included:

Field density testing for subgrade and base layers to verify proper compaction.

Concrete sampling and strength testing to ensure mix design compliance and structural integrity.

Asphalt testing and lab analysis to confirm pavement thickness and material quality.

Our Solution

Communication was key. HVJ made the process easier for our client by being responsive, adaptable, and always available. We worked closely with Hollaway Consulting Engineers, LLC, whose team handled daily coordination and weekly project meetings. This partnership ensured consistent communication and kept the project organized and on track.

Our technicians maintained open lines of communication with field crews, while our engineers provided quick feedback and summaries for AECOM and Hollaway. We carefully timed field-testing results to support continuous work progress and participated in weekly coordination meetings. We also streamlined reporting formats to help the project team interpret results quickly. By customizing our reports to highlight critical data and flag potential concerns, we helped AECOM and the contractor make faster, more confident decisions at the right time.

The Results

The project was successfully completed despite the site-related challenges. Proactive coordination and a problem-solving attitude helped streamline testing logistics, quickly resolve field issues, and keep the project on schedule. In our final meeting, we were honored that representatives from Hollaway Consulting Engineers, LLC, and AECOM praised our team’s responsiveness, communication, and ownership of solutions to overcome site-related challenges. The airport is a valuable asset for Port Aransas and its community. The improvements are expected to attract more aircraft and boost the local economy.

Mustang Beach Airport

Project Background

The Challenge

The Goals

Our Solution

HVJ Associates, Inc.

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