The Calgary Airport Authority has announced to move forward on constructing a new runway instead of initially revealed construction of east-west tunnel under a new airport runway.

"At least we got preserved the right for us to do it (later)", said a disappointed Ald. Jim Stevenson, who had pushed for immediate construction of the tunnel. "But it definitely will be more expensive".

The airport authority's CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors held a closed-door meeting Monday.

The meeting ended with the decision that constructions on the runway will initiate next year without a tunnel.

In addition, it has revealed that about 10 hectares of land on either end will be set aside so a tunnel could eventually be constructed.

Roadway improvements will also be made on sections of Country Hills Boulevard as well as 36th Street near McKnight. The improvements on those two roadways are reported to cost around $10.5 Million.

"I don't think people are going to accept council's mistake here", said the Sheraton Cavalier's Curtis Fernets, adding airport hotels -- including three under construction -- have operated with the understanding the tunnel and runway would be built together.