Bend Airport Air Traffic Control Tower

Engineering a Resilient, High-Visibility Tower

Unlike most air traffic control towers, which are typically constructed of precast concrete, the Bend tower required a more adaptable solution due to its height, seismic risk, and tight construction schedule. Morrison-Maierle evaluated multiple framing options before selecting a steel structural system paired with the Simpson Yield-Link Brace Connection, a high-resilience, energy-dissipating system designed to protect the primary structure during an earthquake. These “fuse-like” components are engineered to yield under extreme loads, absorbing seismic energy while limiting damage to the main frame, and they can be replaced after an event if necessary.

The eight-sided cab at the top of the structure was carefully designed to meet FAA requirements for sightlines and controller eye height, delivering unobstructed, 360-degree visibility across the airfield. The sloped, ultra-clear glass and all-black interior finishes minimize glare and internal reflections, improving both safety and comfort for air traffic controllers. Structural engineers paid special attention to deflection control and vibration mitigation to ensure the cab remains stable and precise, even in high winds or seismic conditions.

Construction sequencing was also a key consideration. Steel was assembled in 2½-story ground-level sections and lifted into place in three major picks, allowing crews to work more safely and efficiently using scissor lifts prior to each crane set. This approach reduced time spent working at height and improved overall site safety without compromising structural quality or alignment.

Integrated Systems in a Compact, Highly Regulated Footprint

Beyond the structural design, the tower’s performance depends on a tightly coordinated network of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, ICT, and fire protection systems, all carefully woven into a compact, vertical floor plan. Morrison-Maierle designed a domestic booster pump to deliver water to the upper levels, along with a 200kW standby generator to maintain operations during power outages. A dedicated command and monitoring center, pressurized stairwell, and post-fire smoke evacuation system were integrated to meet stringent life-safety and FAA requirements.

On the civil side, one of the most unique challenges was stormwater management. Traditional surface detention ponds were not an option due to the risk of attracting birds, a serious hazard near active runways. Instead, the team implemented an underground drywell system to keep all stormwater on site while eliminating standing water. Two drywells, each more than 20 feet deep, were installed beneath the surface to manage runoff from the tower and access road. Additional sediment collection features, including a ditch system and a large sump, were designed to capture debris before infiltration.

Utility coordination included new water, sewer, electrical, communications, and fire protection connections, as well as the integration of supplemental weather sensors and a rooftop rotating beacon positioned to prevent glare into the cab. Separate FAA and airport networks were also incorporated to meet federal communication and security requirements.

In total, the project brought together five separate grants, three from the FAA for construction, one for design, and one from the State of Oregon, totaling approximately $17.5 million in awarded funding. The finished tower will be staffed by a team of FAA controllers and is scheduled for completion in early 2026, marking a significant milestone in the airport’s long-planned safety improvement efforts.

The Result

More than just a new structure on the airfield, the Bend Air Traffic Control Tower is a direct investment in regional safety, economic vitality, and long-term resilience. It’s a reflection of what’s possible when precise engineering, strong advocacy, and close collaboration come together to meet the needs of a growing community.