
FAQs
Questions will be updated at various times to reflect both the current planning activities and input gathered during the planning process.
Milwaukee County encourages community input and conversation on the future of Timmerman Airport.
Why prepare a Master Plan Update?
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires airports to maintain long-range plans for airport development so that airport sponsors make cost-effective facility and land use decisions that maintain a safe, secure, and efficient operating environment and that reflect local priorities for the airport. This Master Plan Update will serve as a guide for managing and developing future facilities at MWC over the next two decades.
How are the aviation activity forecasts prepared and why are they important?
Forecasts of future activity (sometimes called “demand forecasts”) are prepared by reviewing historical trends and using a combination of statistical and economic modeling and professional judgment. For example, evaluating the past trends in aviation activity growth and considering the corresponding economic conditions can yield important insights. Demand forecasts also consider identified industry trends (e.g., increased recreational flying, evolving aircraft characteristics, etc.).
Activity forecasts are important because the Airport must be prepared to accommodate aviation needs in the future and to provide a safe and efficient operating environment and therefore must provide the right types, configurations, and sizes of facilities as appropriate. These demand forecasts are used to establish the timing and need for future facilities.
What is the FAA’s role in the Master Plan Update?
The FAA is responsible for the review and approval of the forecast of future activity. The agency’s review is intended to ensure that forecasts are realistic, are based on reasonable planning assumptions, consider current data, and are developed using an appropriate methodology.
The FAA is also responsible for the review and approval of the Airport Layout Plan to ensure that it presents a reasonable planning concept, that it complies with FAA planning standards, and that it follows published guidance.
What are the goals of the Master Plan Update?
The planning team will be working with Airport representatives to define goals to guide the development and evaluation of alternative concepts for meeting forecast demand and other planning activities. A strategic Business Plan for MWC was prepared in 2017, documenting a vision of a revitalized airport that leverages the Airport as a premier general aviation airport in the state.
Will the public have input on the Airport’s preferred long-range development plan?
Yes, alternative development concepts and the process used to evaluate them will be presented to stakeholders and at public information sessions, giving an opportunity for feedback and input. This input will be considered during the planning process.
What are the components of an Airport Master Plan?
The key elements of an Airport Master Plan include a detailed inventory of existing airport facilities and capacities, an analysis of present and future demand (forecast of activity), and phased development plans designed to accommodate projected growth at the Airport. The Airport Master Plan conclusions are documented through the Airport Layout Plan (ALP), which is subject to FAA approval.
Who will pay for the projects recommended in the Master Plan Update?
Airport projects are commonly financed through a mix of federal, state, and local government funding, including grants and bonds. In addition, airport-generated revenue and, at times, private investment may be used to support funding for these projects. No local property tax dollars are used to fund airport development projects.
Is a runway extension being considered? Are flight paths projected to change?
An extension of Runway 15L-33R in both the northwest and/or southeast direction is under consideration to meet the operational requirements of business aircraft. Additionally, a potential long-term adjustment to the runway orientation is being explored to enhance operational safety, accommodate larger business aircraft, and minimize the potential impact on neighboring residential communities. Adjustments to flight paths may occur as the runway attributes change (length, alignment, or navigational aids).
Will noise be addressed in the Master Plan Update?
Yes, noise exposure contours will be prepared to reflect the existing conditions and operations at the Airport, as well as the forecast aircraft operations as these aircraft would operate on future airfield components that are identified as part of the preferred development alternative.
Will this Master Plan Update consider non-airfield facilities?
Non-airfield facilities will be considered as part of the assessment of existing capacities and during the alternatives analysis, considering terminal, access, and support facilities (e.g., vehicle parking facilities, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance, etc.).
Will the turf runways be affected?
This Master Plan Update will include an evaluation of the turf runways to assess their usage and determine their benefit to Airport users and the aviation community. The analysis of development alternatives will assess the possibility of removing one or both turf runways, with the goal of identifying solutions that improve airfield operational efficiency while meeting the needs of the aviation community.
