Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that work is getting underway on projects that will modernize the Watertown International Airport and the Adirondack Regional Airport, creating welcoming travel gateways that will help attract new visitors and bring added economic activity to the North Country. Additionally, work is progressing on the expansion of the main terminal and other enhancements at the Ogdensburg International Airport, further energizing the region. The three projects were awarded funds from the Governor's $230 million Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition representing a $54.5 million investment in the North Country's vital transportation infrastructure.

"From the Thousand Islands to the Adirondack Mountains, the North Country is home to some of New York State's most popular attractions, and the improvements we are making to the Watertown, Ogdensburg and Adirondack airports will create world-class travel experiences that will make the region an even more desirable place to live, work and visit," Governor Hochul said. "The work now underway at these three airports will provide the North Country with state-of-the-art gateways that will keep visitors coming back again and again, boosting tourism and providing a high-energy charge to the region's economy."

The Watertown International Airport, the Adirondack Regional Airport and the Ogdensburg International Airport were among nine upstate airports awarded a total of $230 million in the latest round of the Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition funding announced by Governor Hochul in the Fall of 2022. The awards are intended to promote, revitalize, and accelerate investments in upstate commercial passenger service airports, helping to create airports for the 21st century.

The Watertown International Airport

Established in 1928, Watertown International Airport handled more than 22,000 enplanements in 2023. It serves as a key gateway to the gorgeous Thousand Islands Region - a boater's and tourist's paradise - and is a vital hub for Fort Drum military personnel and their families. However, the airport is outdated and currently lacks a jet bridge, leaving passengers with little protection from weather as they board or disembark from an aircraft. Waiting spaces are also cramped, often forcing soldiers and other passengers to remain outside while they await transport.

The $32.5 million modernization project, which is receiving $28 million from the Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition, will construct a new, 25,000-square-foot terminal that will house a new lobby, ticketing and baggage claim areas, a jet bridge, expanded passenger waiting areas, and dedicated car rental counterspace, among other amenities. The current terminal will continue operating until the new terminal, which is being built next to the original building, is finished in the summer of 2025. Upon completion, operations will be transferred to the new terminal and extensive renovations will begin on the old terminal building to add a new restaurant, offices and classroom/event spaces.

By leasing future available spaces to new tenants, rental car companies and restaurant vendors, among other private investment opportunities, these improvements are expected to create numerous opportunities for the creation of new jobs at the airport, with 325 jobs directly resulting from the construction.

Adirondack Regional Airport

Built in 1942, the Adirondack Regional Airport handles over 4,700 enplanements annually and is the only commercial service airport within the Adirondack Park. Located in the Town of Harrietstown, the airport is a short drive from Saranac Lake, Lake Placid, Tupper Lake and other popular destinations in the High Peaks Region.

The project, which was awarded $8.5 million from the Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition, will expand the central receiving area, update the furniture and lighting, and relocate and enlarge the café. Additional improvements include air circulation enhancements such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, the installation of solar panels, and an upgraded water well. This revitalization project, which has an estimated total cost of $8.8 million, is expected to create more than 90 jobs and be completed by the winter of 2025.

Ogdensburg International Airport

Since the official groundbreaking in March commemorating the second phase of construction at Ogdensburg International Airport, work has been going full steam ahead on a $22 million project - which includes $18 million from the Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition - to transform this North Country Airport into a first class facility. The Ground Services Equipment building has been fully reconstructed and water system work is nearing completion over the next couple months. Additionally, work to fully transform the terminal at the facility, including demolition of the existing baggage canopy and exterior wall on the north side has been completed while foundation work is ongoing. The project is on track to be completed in the spring of 2025.

The Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition is administered by the New York State Department of Transportation and was open to upstate commercial passenger service airports and airports providing specialized service for commercial aircraft and/or corporate jets. Applicants were encouraged to apply for funding for a single project or a program of projects to help meet the demands of the 21st century. Projects submitted for review by eligible airports were evaluated based on established criteria, including but not limited to innovation in design, passenger amenities and experience, operational efficiencies, and economic effectiveness for the airport's region.

The work now underway at these three airports will provide the North Country with state-of-the-art gateways that will keep visitors coming back again and again, boosting tourism and providing a high-energy charge to the region's economy."

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, "Our upstate airports serve as vital gateways that provide a lasting first impression to visitors and open the door to new opportunities for tourism and economic growth. The investments we are making at these three North Country airports will transform them into first-class facilities that will welcome travelers and make it easier to see and experience one of New York State's most beautiful regions."

Assemblymember Scott Gray said, "Thank you to Governor Hochul for announcing critical investments in the Watertown International Airport and Ogdensburg Airport, totaling $46 million as part of the Governor's Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization. These projects will modernize our airports, enhance services, and stimulate economic growth in the North Country. Airports in the North Country are extremely valuable assets that support economic activities and are vitally important to medical transportation services. I extend my sincere thanks to Governor Hochul for her commitment to our region's infrastructure and economic future."

Assemblymember Billy Jones said, "Congratulations to the Adirondack Regional Airport! This funding will not only make necessary improvements to their facility, but also bring jobs to the Adirondacks. These enhancements will also make this airport more welcoming to travelers wishing to experience the Adirondacks and comparable to other local airports. I am proud to support this project and look forward to what the future has in store."

Jefferson County Chair Bill Johnson said, "Together with our state and federal partners, we recognize that this facility is the gateway to our community, and in many cases the gateway to the North Country Region. Governor, thank you for your support of our community. Your plane is always welcomed here in Jefferson County."

About the Department of Transportation

It is the mission of the New York State Department of Transportation to provide a safe, reliable, equitable, and resilient transportation system that connects communities, enhances quality of life, protects the environment, and supports the economic well-being of New York State. Lives are on the line; slow down and move over for highway workers. For more information, find us on Facebook, follow us on X, or Instagram, or visit the DOT website. For up-to-date travel information, call 511, visit www.511NY.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

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