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IDOT Buys Bult Field, Paves Way For South Suburban Airport

Illinois are moving forward with plans for a major airport south of the city of Chicago. Part of that plan includes the State of Illinois owning and operating a small general  aviation airport near Monee in Will County where the long proposed South Suburban one will go. 

The Illinois Department of Transportation purchased Bult Field for $34 million.

The purchase includes 288 acres of land and a 5,000 foot runway.

IDOT will operate Bult Field as an airport until it eventually becomes part of the  much larger South Suburban Airport.

IDOT spokesman Guy Tridgell calls the purchase a tremendous asset to the state.

"We’re thrilled  to complete this purchase and ultimately it demonstrates the Governor’s strong commitment to get the South Suburban Airport up and running," Tridgell said.

Opponents -- including Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel -- say the airport is not needed.

The South Suburban Airport would likely compete for business with a slowly expanding -- but often delayed - one in Gary, Indiana.

Copyright 2014 WNIJ Northern Public Radio

Michael Puente