Ogdensburg International Airport breaks ground on $18M expansion

OGDENSBURG, N.Y. (WWTI) — A major expansion is coming to the Ogdensburg International Airport.

On March 7, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed that work will begin on Ogdensburg’s main terminal. This is the second phase of construction on the airport’s ongoing expansion funded by the New York State Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition.

Groundbreaking on the construction was kicked off during a visit from New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez.

“This facility is entering with this investment a new chapter into the 21st century,” Commissioner Dominguez said during her visit to Ogdensburg. “When we look at all the upstate airports that we’re investing in, this represents that level of the next 50 years of investment.”

The Ogdensburg International Airport “lacks adequate space” to handle passenger flow and expected levels of future growth, according to the governor’s office.

Currently, the airport only services one flight with Contour Airlines to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Improvements to the airport will include an expanded lobby, additional restrooms, expansion of the screening, concession and baggage claim areas, upgraded security and WiFi, new sanitation and water fill stations and an upgraded outdoor space.

The Airport will also add a “Great Room” which will serve as a multi-purpose facility that will accommodate a variety of public events.

Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority Executive Director Steven Lawrence said the goal is to increase airport traffic.

“Our airport sits idle roughly 60% to 70% of the time,” Lawrence explained. “To utilize that facility, we wanted to bring in the idea of a community gathering space that would benefit Ogdensburg in the region and so that it could be used at other times. An efficient use in the building, but also an area that makes traveling a lot easier out of this airport and more enjoyable. “

The project has a total estimated cost of $22 million and is expected to create 195 new jobs, the Governor’s Office confirmed.

NYSDOT Commissioner Dominguez added that she hopes this increases tourism in the North Country region.

“My hope is that people understand that Ogdensburg is a fantastic destination. Use of the airport will help bring them here. So whether you’re coming any time of year to come snowmobiling or if you’re going to come and enjoy the incredible natural beauty in the summer businesses as a destination,” she expressed. “Ogdensburg is the entry point. And this airport will allow you to do that.”

The project is expected to be complete by Spring 2025.

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