LANSING, Mich. — On November 25, the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center (Alpena CRTC) will showcase its newly repaired primary runway which supports military and commercial aircraft operations with a ribbon cutting ceremony.
The two year, $60 million federally funded construction project (a combined $40 million in Department of Defense funds and $20 million of Federal Aviation Administration funds) included a collaborative multi-agency partnership which repaired the entire length of Alpena County Regional Airport’s primary runway which supports both military and commercial aircraft operations.
The project also relocated a Michigan Air National Guard-owned Aircraft Arresting System outside of the FAA’s Runway Safety Area and installed a new arresting system cable raising and lowering system to ensure the Alpena CRTC can provide support to fighter aircraft operations while ensuring the safety of commercial and general aviation aircraft.
During the ceremony, F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft from the 180th Fighter Wing, Ohio Air National Guard, will land and engage the barrier, resulting in certifying the arresting system’s cable. The landing will have a “cutting the ribbon” effect.
WHO: Michigan National Guard, local and state officials
WHAT: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for New Runway
WHEN: November 25, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.
WHERE: Alpena CRTC, 5884 Alpena St., Alpena, MI 49048
The three phases of the project employed an estimated 20+ companies and more than 350 workers and suppliers, the majority of which were Michigan-based. The following organizations were involved with the project:
- RS&H: Project engineering team and designers of record (Flint, Michigan office)
- M&M Excavating: Prime construction contractor for the National Guard Bureau-funded portion of the project (Gaylord, Michigan)
- Pyramid Paving and Contracting Co: Prime construction contractor for the FAA-funded portion of the project (Bay City, Michigan)
The Alpena CRTC provides a premiere all-season training center for military service members, emergency responders and coalition forces to meet the mission requirements of combatant commanders and civil authorities. Established as an Air National Guard base since 1953, the Alpena CRTC is comprised of approximately 200 personnel and commanded by Col. Michael C. Whitefoot.
Media must RSVP to the 127th Wing Public Affairs Office for gate entry and attendance. To RSVP, please contact Penny Carroll at 586-239-4735 or
Penelope.carroll.2@us.af.mil no later than 9 a.m. on November 25. Photos and B-roll video will be available following the event for those who cannot attend.
