Port authority to raze JFK cargo buildings

Port authority to raze JFK cargo buildings    The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey board of commissioners made several decisions at its monthly meeting on Thursday that will have a direct impact on air cargo operations in the region.
   The board's most notable move involved authorizing a $42.3 million program to demolish six cargo buildings and hangers at John F. Kennedy International Airport to create space for future expansion of passenger and cargo businesses. Some of the buildings are more than 60 years old and have been vacant for years, and cost $1.7 million a year to maintain, the port authority said.
   Demolition of the buildings will allow the port authority to expand existing operations such as deicing and aircraft holding pads, as well as locations for future cargo growth.
   The board also authorized a new 20-year lease for FedEx Express for three cargo buildings at Newark International Airport.
   Meanwhile, truckers that deliver cargo to and from JFK will get a new fuel plaza that will offer compressed natural gas in addition to diesel fuel after the board approved a design-bid-build-and-operate contract with developer GAZ Realty Inc.
   The truck plaza will offer a zero-discharge car wash that will recycle used water, a convenience store, fast food dining, and a 50-space parking lot. The parking lot will operate under an extensive security plan to prevent cargo theft that includes surveillance cameras, police patrols, and parking requirements for empty and loaded trailers.
   The facility will replace a nearby BP fuel station.
   GAZ Realty is building a similar multi-fuel station at Newark Airport.