The City of Chamberlain has broken ground (April 20, 2023) for a brand new airport terminal building, thanks in part to an $855,000 grant from the Federal Aviation Administration. Chamberlain was selected as one of 85 airports nationwide to receive this grant.
The new terminal building, which is expected to be completed this fall, will meet ADA standards, be energy-efficient, and support growing users from the planned runway extension. The new terminal will increase accessibility for all users, including customers of pheasant hunting outfitters, which are key drivers of the economic impact in the area. It will also improve access for medical flights and pilots who routinely transport medical staff to Chamberlain.
Erica Peterson, the Senior Director at Sanford Chamberlain Medical Center, shared, “Our hospital serves as a regional hub, and because of this, we fly emergency patients from this airport about every other day. Our emergency staff looks forward to utilizing the new facility in preparation before flights. We are committed to providing patients with the best possible care, and this new terminal building is a critical piece of that effort.
Chamberlain Mayor Chad Mutziger explained, “The FAA grant covers roughly 80% of the project’s total cost, with the remainder being funded by the South Dakota Department of Transportation and the City of Chamberlain. The new terminal building is part of a larger effort to modernize and improve the Chamberlain Airport, which has been in the works for almost 20 years. Without the determination of Greg Powell, we would not be here today.” The new terminal building will be named after former City Engineer Greg Powell, “who never gave up on this project.” Powell stated, “I’m honored to have the new facility named after me; it’s very humbling to be recognized. I’m proud to have been a part of this project.”
Lake Francis Case Economic Development Director, Mike Lauritsen, stated, “We are incredibly grateful for the support of the FAA in helping us make this new terminal building a reality. This new facility will not only improve the overall experience for users, but it will also help our economy as we have multiple businesses that use this new terminal building. We look forward to welcoming travelers.”
Construction on the new terminal building is set to begin in May of 2023, with completion expected later this year.
Engineer’s projection of new terminal at Chamberlain Airport.
Courtesy image.
Engineer’s projection of new terminal at Chamberlain Airport.
Courtesy image.
Engineer’s projection of new terminal at Chamberlain Airport.
Courtesy image.
Greg Powell, namesake of the new terminal at Chamberlain Airport.
Courtesy image.
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