Brown County officials are beginning the work now to improve your experience flying in and out of Austin Straubel International Airport. Earlier this month, the airport announced plans to partner with two firms to conduct major strategic studies designed to guide future growth, ensure responsible development, and align the airport’s plans with the evolving needs of the region.

One plan will focus on its existing facilities and what will need to be done to modernize Austin Straubel’s current terminals to make them more attractive for its carriers and its passengers alike. A second plan will look at the land available around the airport to determine what would best benefit the needs of the community and the surrounding neighborhood. Airport Director Marty Piette says creating a better experience in a responsible manner is the goal.

The fruit of the labor will not be fully realized for years to come, though community groups have already started this work earlier this fall.