TOWN OF HOUNSFIELD, N.Y. (WWNY) – “I want it to open next summer.” That’s what Governor Kathy Hochul said about the redevelopment of Watertown International Airport.

The governor visited the airport on Tuesday to discuss the $32 million construction project, with the state covering $28 million of the cost.

“Today we begin the largest expansion of Watertown International Airport since it opened in 1928. That’s a long time without major capital expenditure – 1928,” Hochul said.

The project includes a terminal of over 2,000 m² with a new lobby and expanded areas for ticket sales and baggage claim.

In addition, a passenger bridge will be added and the waiting areas will be modernized.

Currently, passengers have to leave the terminal to board the plane. The jet bridge will change that.

“In the middle of winter, it’s not uncommon for a soldier to come back through Fort Drum, be greeted by their spouse and a child, and try to bundle up in the middle of winter to get back to their home, wherever that may be if they don’t live here,” Hochul said. “The reason they’re bundled up and freezing is because they’re trying to get on a plane outside, right? That’s the picture. That’s what we do when we welcome our heroes home. We put them out in the cold and say, ‘Sorry, this is your welcome home.’ We can do better, my friends. That’s just one example of what this transformation is going to mean for this community, and I’m so excited about it.”

We will report more about the governor’s visit this evening at 5 and 6 p.m. on 7News.

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