New Airport Development

The two existing airports in Sioux County, Iowa, built over 50 years ago, had constraints that limited both usage and aircraft size. Discussions for a new regional airport to address these issues began in 1999, although earthwork did not begin until 2015.

DGR Engineering (DGR) led the design and construction phase engineering for the development of the $30 million airport. Tasks included all phases of design and construction engineering activities.

In all, 17 general contractors and major subcontractors were involved in the project, which opened in November of 2018. Not only can the new regional airport receive larger planes, it can also provide hangar space for 75 aircraft, and has a larger aircraft maintenance shop along with increased charter office space.

In addition to several other phases of the extensive project, construction of the runways and taxiways were completed in three phases beginning with a $3.5 million first grading phase in 2016. The construction of the $4 million initial paving project was completed in fall 2017. A final $5 million paving and electrical project was completed in 2018.

DGR also provided design and construction services for support facilities that included a new 15,400 square foot terminal building and hangar. The terminal building serves as fixed base operator (FBO) offices and as the airport arrival/departure facility.

The hangar also supports FBO services for the new airport. DGR also designed and provided construction observation for the new fuel system which includes twin 12,000 gallon tanks for aviation and jet fuel.

The airport has had multiple ramp, hangar and utility upgrades in recent years.