FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – From the ground breaking to construction, Local 10 News has been there for every step in the process of expanding Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport's south runway.
The 8,000-foot-long elevated runway expansion is the largest project in the history of the airport.
Airport officials said the runway will reduce flight delays and accommodate flight traffic.
"We have 6 to 700 flights a day, in and out of our airport," said Greg Meyer of the Broward County Aviation Department. "We've been using one runway for the past two and half years. It just doesn't work and tomorrow is the big day when the first commercial flight will touch down."
The new runway is critical to the community, some argue, but Brenda Lee Chalifour of Dania Beach isn't celebrating.
"In short order, I think our neighborhood will be uninhabitable," said Chalifour.
Chalifour is one of the homeowners who lost a battle to stop the runway expansion project and is worried about air and noise pollution.
But Meyer claims they've been working to remedy those concerns, plus paying $60,000 to $80,000 per home to eligible homeowners for new windows and doors -- even upgrading homes to central air conditioning.
"It really is a good deal for the homeowner," said Meyer.
Those who choose to participate in the noise mitigation program will be eligible for sales assistance next year.
But Chalifour is not satisfied.
"The real war for homeowners is you built it, you know it's a problem, we know it's a problem -- compensate us -- the answer really is cut the check," said Chalifour.
Chalifour is preparing for a planned two-night candlelight protest.
"We are all going to light up our homes to shine light on the fact that we are not being taken care of," said Chalifour.
WATCH: Brenda Lee Chalifour speaks about why residents are planning protest and their strategy moving forward.
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