WATERTOWN, NY — Governor Kathy Hochul announces that work is getting underway on projects that will modernize the Watertown International Airport and the Adirondack Regional Airport, creating 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 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,” 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.”
“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," said Marie Therese Dominguez, New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner. "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.”
Established in 1928, Watertown International Airport handled more than 22,000 enplanements in 2023. It serves as a key gateway to the 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 However, the airport is outdated and currently lacks a jet bridge, leaving passengers with little protection from weather as they board or disembark from an aircraft.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.
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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 be completed by the winter of 2025.
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.
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.
