G5 Barrier Installed at Charlotte Airport

Charlotte Airport faced a containment challenge when its new runway and access road were constructed. A curved section sat atop a 40-foot embankment overlooking a busy taxiway. To reduce the risk of incidents involving heavy vehicles in this area, the Gregory Guardian 5 (G5) high-containment barrier system was put in place, offering the necessary strength, versatility, and reliable performance.

G5 installed along a curved access road above a 40-foot embankment.

Protecting a High-Risk Access Road

To reduce risks to truck drivers, vehicles, and airport infrastructure, the G5 high-containment barrier was installed along a curved access road leading to the Norfolk Southern railroad container terminal. Without adequate containment measures, a fully loaded tractor-trailer could potentially fall as much as 40 feet onto a newly constructed airport taxiway, posing risks of severe injury, considerable infrastructure damage, and costly disruptions to flight operations.

The solution required:

• Engineering to withstand heavy-vehicle impacts
• Adaptability to roadway conditions
• Reliability under sustained traffic conditions

The Gregory Guardian 5 barrier fulfilled all these criteria.

Reynolds Fence & Guardrail crews driving posts during G5 installation.

Experienced Installation Partner

Reynolds Fence & Guardrail, a reputable industry leader serving departments of transportation and municipalities since 1983, was responsible for the installation. Although the unique curve and TL-5 design introduced some minor challenges on-site, these issues were promptly resolved through close cooperation among Gregory Highway, Reynolds Fence & Guardrail, and airport officials.

Open-bottom G5 design supports drainage and maintenance access.

Designed for Heavy-Vehicle Impact

The Gregory Guardian 5 (G5) is a MASH TL-5 longitudinal median barrier, engineered to safely capture and redirect a fully loaded 80,000-pound tractor-trailer.

Key Performance Characteristics:

• Meets all MASH TL-5 standards
• Maximum dynamic deflection: 4’4”
• Working width: 5’5”
• Bi-directional median or roadside applications
• Transition capability to standard AASHTO W-Beam or Thrie-Beam systems

For airport environments where heavy maintenance trucks, fuel vehicles, and service equipment operate daily, TL-5 performance provides critical assurance.

Completed G5 installation securing the access road and protecting runway infrastructure.

A Model of Collaboration

The Charlotte Airport G5 installation reflects strong collaboration between Gregory Highway, Reynolds Fence & Guardrail, and airport officials. More importantly, it demonstrates how engineered steel barrier systems address complex infrastructure challenges in demanding environments.

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