$15 million. Their portion of the project is topping $50 million. So, there’s been a significant amount of money put into the runway,” he says. FUTURE PLANS With $4 million allocated from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), the airport plans to construct 20 new nested T-hangars. Noting the demand, Smigelski says, “We didn’t even advertise that we were going to be putting in new hangars, and we already had 30 letters of intent for 20 hangars.” The potential for a new box hangar to serve as both a cargo facility and a transient aircraft space is also on the horizon. “Right now, FedEx and UPS land their aircraft, and they basically unload the aircraft right on the ramp. So, if it’s raining or snowing, your package from Amazon might get some water spots on it,” Smigelski acknowledges. “We’ve got plans to use what is left of the BIL money and put in as big a box hangar as we can.That could serve as a cargo handling facility. It would also be good for transient aircraft. And we take a large number of medical evacuations every year.” The airport’s efforts to attract new businesses to the surrounding area are part of Alpena County’s economic development strategy. “We have a bunch of undeveloped property on the west side of Airport Road, and we’re in the process right now of having all the trees clear cut off of it,” he expands. “The county is going to invest a significant amount of money by putting in water and sewer lines, so any potential businesses won’t have to worry about those utilities.They’ll already be in place.” He relays that a collaboration between the airport, economic development agency, Target Alpena, and the county, has resulted in attracting a recycling center, which will be located in the south end of the available property. ENHANCING LOCAL TOURISM AND ECONOMY Alpena’s charm extends beyond the airport, with the region boasting a wealth of attractions. As a former 8 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 10 ALPENA COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT
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