Artist rendering of an upgraded terminal at Wisconsin Rapids' Alexander Field. Image courtesy: Wisconsin Rapids Area Convention and Visitors Bureau
WISCONSIN RAPIDS, WI (WSAU) — Alexander Field-South Wood County Airport in Wisconsin Rapids has been awarded $2.7 million for terminal upgrades.
“We are honored to have been the only general aviation airport in the state selected for this competitive grant,” said Airport Manager Jeremy Sickler in a press 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.”
According to a press release from Senator Tammy Baldwin’s office, the award is part of $12.7 million in funding awarded to three Wisconsin airports. Mitchell International in Milwaukee will get $8 million for a new international flight terminal. Appleton International will get $2 million to reconfigure its ticket counters.
The airport originally opened to serve employees and executives of the various paper mills in the area. It has since become a gateway for golfers looking to play the nearby Sand Valley Golf Resort courses. Jet traffic has increased by 600% since the first course opened in 2017.
The last major expansion of the airport came in 2019 and included an expanded apron and a new hangar.
In 2024, the airport landed planes from 31 states.
Mayor Matt Zacher says the city and airport have reached out to foundations and other grant programs to help get the project across the finish line.
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