Hayward runway project slated for June completion with optimistic outlook

The Sawyer County Public Works meeting on April 15, 2025, focused on the ongoing airport runway project in Hayward, with officials expressing optimism about the timeline and potential challenges ahead.

Key discussions highlighted the progress of the runway project, with contractors indicating that, weather permitting, they could complete the initial phase by June. The project manager noted that the pavement removal could take just three days, followed by an additional five days to achieve the correct grade for the new surface. However, there is concern about the possibility of a wet spring, which could delay progress.

Officials also discussed the logistics of transporting materials, emphasizing the need for coordination with the town of Hayward. They plan to conduct a site visit to assess access routes, as the project will involve a significant number of dump trucks transporting materials. The contract includes provisions for repairing any roads that may be damaged during this process.

In addition to the runway project, the meeting touched on the impact of the airport's temporary closure on fuel sales, with estimates suggesting a potential 25 to 30% reduction if the airport remains closed throughout June. Officials are working to manage traffic and ensure that smaller aircraft can still operate from nearby Cable Airport during the shutdown.

Overall, the meeting underscored a proactive approach to managing the airport project while addressing community concerns and potential economic impacts. The next steps involve continued collaboration with local authorities and monitoring weather conditions to stay on schedule.