Economic development, Airport Improvement Program - Wisconsin Department of Transportation

The Airport Improvement Program, administered by WisDOT's Bureau of Aeronautics, combines federal, state and local resources to help fund improvements for nearly 100 public-use airports throughout the state.

WisDOT is responsible for assisting in the development of a coordinated system of airports in Wisconsin. To do this, WisDOT guides airport development through a process that begins with broad policy planning and includes progressively more detailed elements of system planning, airport master planning, programming, and finally individual airport development. Through an agency agreement with the airport owner, WisDOT oversees project planning, coordination, design, land acquisition and construction, as well as financial transactions for an airport project.

Airport Improvement Program and economic development

The Wisconsin system of general aviation and commercial airports facilitates the rapid transport of high-value goods and interim products used in manufacturing, and the movement of key corporate personnel for hundreds of companies in the state. The movement of high-value intermediate and finished goods boosts productivity of Wisconsin businesses, and also expands their market reach all over the world. This increases competitiveness, which can lead to increased output, employment and incomes. In addition, the presence of a public airport capable of handling corporate aircraft is often a factor considered when companies select a business site.

Also, airline passenger service is a key element in economic growth. WisDOT will perform economic impact studies for airports, including the effects of major airport improvements on the community, upon request.

Case study

The Airport Improvement Program is providing part of the funding of a multi-phase improvement of the Sheboygan County Memorial Airport. This improvement includes lengthening runways, constructing new hangers, and improving airport avionics. In addition to providing some of the funding, the Bureau of Aeronautics acts as the agent for the airport, and oversees consultants to do the planning, design, and construction engineering for the $15.5 million project.

Wisconsin's airports integrate its people and businesses into the global economy and promote the international exchange of ideas, products and investments opportunities. Airports enable small communities and rural populations to enter into the mainstream of domestic and global commerce by linking such communities with larger metropolitan areas, manufacturing facilities and other educational and cultural centers.

For more information, see WisDOT's Airport Improvement Program Web page, or contact Mary Strait, Bureau of Aeronautics.

Overhead view of Sheboygan Airport

Apply for funds or get more information about the Airport Improvement Program

Related information:

General aviation information