A public forum was held this evening to discuss the proposed expansion and redevelopment of MacArthur Airport in Islip.

The proposal includes a pair of 7,000-foot runways and a monorail shuttle from the Ronkonkoma train station to an expanded air terminal. Officials say the project could be completed in as little as nine months if the federal government approves the proposal.

Islip Town Councilman John Cochrane supports the plan but says it's important to solicit public opinion on a project of this size and scale. He says the airport drives economic development in Islip, and any proposed expansion should balance the concerns of local residents.

A handful of residents who were attendance viewed exhibits and were able to question town officials and airport personnel about the project.

Islip Town officials say they could submit their final plan to the FAA in early in 2014.