New Runway Just Part Of $7.3 Million Facelift For Wisconsin Airport

By ANN Correspondent Rose Dorcey

They didn't do it with a fast, upside down aerobatic airplane flying just inches from the ground, but the runway ribbon cutting ceremony at the new and much improved Middleton Municipal/Morey Field Airport (WI) was almost as exciting. City and state officials joined Rich Morey in a ceremonious ribbon cutting that marked an important milestone in the ongoing enhancements being made at the Middleton Airport.

The new, longer runway is just one component of a $7.3 million facelift that includes a new terminal building, new hangars, a taxiway, and upgraded airport lighting. 
 
"We're so proud to be here," said Morey, surrounded by a large crowd of supporters, government officials and television media. "We've turned a 1940's vintage airport into a modern aviation facility for general aviation and light business. I want to thank the city leaders for having the foresight to save this piece of infrastructure."

State and city officials echoed the thoughts of Morey in brief statements to the press. Keith Gerard, deputy director of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation's Bureau of Aeronautics said that if State Transportation Secretary Frank Busalacchi attended, he would want to compliment the City of Middleton for their spirit and drive.

"Five years ago, when decisions were being made, communities were running deficits, unemployment was coming up, but the people of the City of Middleton decided there was a window of opportunity," said Gerard. "With federal and state assistance, you see the outstanding results here. We are sure with the Morey family here it is going to continue to have that feeling of a general aviation, small-town airport. That is one of the unique and wonderful things about Middleton. On behalf of the secretary, we're pleased to be a financial and moral supporter of this project."

At 4,000 feet, the new Middleton runway is about 1,000' longer than the previous runway, and at 100' wide, about three times wider. But Mark Opitz, Assistant City Planner, is quick to point out that at that length, the community should not expect Middleton Municipal to become Middleton International. "We won't have commercial airlines here, the runway length was kept to 4,000' so that we wouldn't reach that threshold where there would be a substantial increase in air traffic. We will remain a general aviation facility, and with the improvements, such as the runway and taxiway lighting, we will offer a safer environment for pilots."

Morey (being interviewed, above) traced the family heritage that led to the development of the Middleton Airport. Morey's grandfather, Howard Morey, started Dane County's first airport in 1925. When World War II loomed on the horizon, Howard moved to the Middleton location. Both Howard Morey and his son, Field, managed the Morey Field Airport.
 
"We intend to be a good neighbor in the community," said Rich Morey in his closing statements. "We want to be a community airport, where families can bring their kids to watch the airplanes. I want to invite you all back in spring for a big open house when the complete project is finished."

FMI: www.ci.middleton.wi.us/Transportation/Airport/airport.htm