More than 60 helicopters and 1,400 soldiers have been temporarily based at the fort since 2005. Formerly known as Task Force 49, it's being reflagged as the 16th Combat Aviation Brigade.
The Fairbanks Daily News-Miner reports permanent basing could bring $460 million in new construction to the post.
The name change went into effect Oct. 16, and a formal reflagging ceremony is scheduled for December. Capt. Dave Mattox, of U.S. Army Alaska, said it does not affect the brigade's mission, and it's not an indication of the Army's plans.
The companies that make up the 16th Combat Aviation Brigade have seen regular deployments to Iraq since coming to Fort Wainwright. A and C Companies, 1st Battalion, 52nd Aviation Regiment have been deployed to Iraq, though the troops are expected to return to the post by the end of the year.
The recently returned 6th Squadron, 17th Cavalry has completed the reintegration process and the resetting of its equipment.
On Friday, U.S. Army Alaska issued a press release saying residents of Fairbanks and the surrounding areas might notice increased air traffic as more soldiers return.
"I know it was quiet here for the last year with without the helicopters and it is going to get busier now that the helicopters are back," Col. Robert Wertham, commander of the brigade, said in the release.
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