Appleton International Airport gets an $8M federal boost for its expansion project
GREENVILLE - The Appleton International Airport received an $8 million boost from federal funding to complete its terminal expansion project, which aims to accommodate more air traffic and an improved public area for travelers.
Funding comes from the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program and will go toward increasing the number of airline gates and improving the airport's gift shop and restaurant.
"This latest grant moves us closer to completing our concourse expansion the travelers of (northeast) Wisconsin need at their hometown airport,” Airport Director Abe Weber said in a press release.
The expansion project comes at another record-busy year for the airport, with it expecting to serve over 930,000 passengers by the end of the year — up from 846,000 the previous year.
What's expanding at the Appleton airport?
Over the next two to three years, the airport will expand its terminal by 250 feet and add four new gates to keep up with passenger growth and bring in more flights.
The first phase of the project — which is supported by the $8 million federal grant — will increase the number of gates from six to 10 in hopes of encouraging airlines to add more routes through Appleton.
Additionally, the airport also plans to improve the gift shop and restaurant, and increase the number of restrooms to improve the passenger experience.
The second phase of the project plans to improve ticket counters, baggage claim and driving lanes. This phase has not been designed or put out for bids yet.
Where is funding for the expansion project coming from?
The majority of funding will come from state and federal grants, including this $8 million federal grant and a $7 million investment from the state in the recent biennial budget.
How much will the expansion cost?
In total, the project is estimated to cost $105 million once finished. The first phase will cost about $65 million.
When is the project expected to be completed?
Construction of the first phase is expected to begin this fall and will take two to three years to complete, so airport travelers can expect updated amenities by 2026.
Sophia Voight is a local government and politics reporter with The Post-Crescent. She can be reached with feedback and tips at svoight@postcrescent.com. Follow her on Treads @sophia.voight
This article originally appeared on Appleton Post-Crescent: Appleton airport gets $8 million federal funding boost for expansion
