The State of Illinois is 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 dollars. The purchase includes 288 acres of land and a 5-thousand 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.
"This is 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. "
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.