Appleton International Airport. (PHOTO: WTAQ News)
(WTAQ-WLUK) — Three Wisconsin airports are receiving more than $12.5 million in federal funds to support improvements and safety upgrades, officials announced Tuesday.
The money comes from the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Terminals Program, established by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The program provides grants for airport terminal improvements, airport-owned airport traffic control towers and on-airport rail and bus projects that improve multimodal connections.
“Our local airports are vital hubs that connect businesses and visitors throughout the Badger State,” said Senator Tammy Baldwin in a news release. “As our communities grow, our airports need to be ready to handle increased traffic and keep travelers safe.”
The following Wisconsin airports will receive funding:
Appleton International Airport
ATW is getting $2 million to reconfigure and expand ticket counters and airline offices, modernize outbound baggage handling and bag make-up systems and enlarge passenger processing areas to meet current and forecasted demand. The funding will increase ticket counter and bag make-up capacity by approximately 45% — significantly improving passenger throughput, reducing congestion and enhancing reliability for both passengers and airline operations.
“This project is focused at supporting our continued growth while also making our facility more welcoming for all travelers and elevating the customer journey,” said ATW Director Abe Weber in the release.
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport
MKE is getting $8 million to complete the redevelopment of its E Concourse into a new international terminal — a project which officials said is critical for accommodating international air service, ensuring operational safety and fostering regional economic growth.
“By making this project a reality, I am proud we are creating jobs, opening a new front door for visitors into our community and providing major benefits to Milwaukee County and the state of Wisconsin for years to come,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley in the release.
Alexander Field – South Wood County Airport (Wisconsin Rapids)
ISW is getting $2.7 million to reconstruct its existing 3,144-square-foot terminal building.
“We are honored to have been the only general aviation airport in the state selected for this competitive grant,” said the airport’s manager, Jeremy Sickler, in the release. “This award is the launch of a quest to raise funds for development of a world class facility with small town charm. Residents of the surrounding communities will be welcomed to utilize the modernized terminal as a gathering and observation space in the presence of the exciting world of aviation.”
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