by Hal Davis
WisDOT Bureau of Aeronautics
2014 Recap: In Wisconsin, we take a lot of pride in the condition of our airports. That’s why we completed more than 80 airport improvement projects at over 60 airports last year. Perhaps the most critical feature of any airport is the pavement. As a result, we renewed our focus on maintaining runway pavement condition by completing over 20 projects related to runway rehabilitation and reconstruction projects last year. We also completed major taxiway and apron projects and upgraded terminal facilities at several airports.
2015 Outlook: Looking ahead, we expect the 2015 construction season to be as busy as ever. Picking up where 2014 left off, several more runway reconstruction and rehabilitation projects are planned for 2015. Although various factors could delay certain projects until 2016, expect extended runway closures this construction season at the following airports:
• Amery Municipal Airport
• Dane County Regional Airport
• Neillsville Municipal Airport
• Park Falls Municipal Airport
• Waukesha County Airport/Crites Field
• West Bend Municipal Airport
Expect taxiway and apron projects at the following airports:
• Austin Straubel International Airport
• Dane County Regional Airport
• General Mitchell International Airport
• Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport
• West Bend Municipal Airport
• Wittman Regional Airport
It wouldn’t be practical to list every single project planned for this year, so be sure to contact the airport manager at the airports you frequent to find out if any projects are scheduled.
Most airport construction projects have the potential to impact normal airport activity, so always check NOTAMS before you go flying as well.
For more information on past and future airport development projects, including the Bureau of Aeronautics’ Five-Year Airport Improvement Program, visit the Wisconsin Bureau of Aeronautics’ website at http://www.dot.wisconsin.gov/modes/air.htm, or call (608) 266-3351.
