Willmar airport and industrial park included in federal appropriations bill

(WASHINGTON, DC) - U.S. Rep. Collin Peterson announced that the funding for the City of Willmar has been included in the appropriations bill that passed the House last weekend for both the airport and the industrial park.

The city airport will receive $1 million to help complete construction for paving, electrical and security components of the new airport. The facility, which will serve as a regional hub for air cargo and attract regional airline service for the area, will include an all weather runway layout.

The city also has been slated to receive $97,000 for their Industrial Park expansion. With the anticipated 2005 closure of the current airport, the City of Willmar will redevelop the site for industrial development. The first phase of redevelopment includes the demolition of runways, taxiways, hangers, and the installation of infrastructure.

“While we expected funding for these projects, it’s always nice to get official word,” Peterson said. “I’m glad I could help secure this funding for Willmar.”

The industrial park expansion is a significant regional project because of Willmar’s role in the region relative to the provision of jobs, goods, and services. For the economic health of southwest and west central Minnesota, it is important that Willmar remain a leader in job creation and economic development. The industrial park expansion will facilitate such development.

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