Governor Kathy Hochul Thursday announced the completion of a major transformation of the Saratoga County Airport, “turning it into a world-class travel destination.”

The project, funded with $27 million from the Governor’s Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition, has revitalized the more than 80-year-old facility into a state-of-the-art gateway.

The reimagined airport now features a new terminal building with a spacious lobby, passenger waiting area, car rental space, pilot’s lounge, and a restaurant. An adjacent 20,000 square-foot hangar is among the upgrades. The facility is expected to stimulate the local economy, with the State Department of Transportation estimating the airport’s economic impact at over $9.7 million.

Regional airports like Saratoga County are catalysts for business, tourism and economic vibrance — injecting millions into local economies and building the foundations of a brighter future,” said Governor Hochul. “Saratoga is a crown jewel of our state, and whether you’re off to the races, traveling for business or coming home to New York, this world-class facility will welcome you with open arms.

The airport, originally built in 1943, has been completely transformed. The new facility includes a conference space and a public restaurant operated by the owners of the Alexis Diner in Rensselaer County. The main lobby, outdoor patio, second-floor conference room, and restaurant are available for public use.

Visitors will enter a spacious lobby featuring a carpet in the shape of Saratoga Lake. A grand staircase leads to the second-floor conference room and dining area, with a balcony overlooking the runway. The terminal building and hangar were built sustainably, featuring solar panels and geothermal wells. EV chargers were also installed in the parking lot.

Investing in our regional airports means investing in the future of our communities,” Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said. “These state-of-the-art improvements to the Saratoga County Airport created hundreds of good-paying jobs and will expand tourism in the Capital Region.

The $35.9 million project created approximately 390 jobs, with a project labor agreement ensuring fair wages. The Saratoga County Airport was one of nine airports to receive a share of $230 million in funding announced in September 2022.

Saratoga County, prepare for takeoff!” Senator Charles Schumer said. “I’ve long fought to secure federal funding for airport upgrades because I know how crucial our airports are for attracting business and tourism to the Capital Region.

I’m proud to see this transformative investment in the Saratoga County Airport come to life thanks to a strong state-federal partnership,” Representative Paul Tonko remarked. “This new and improved facility will not only elevate the travel experience for visitors to our Capital Region, but also serve as a powerful economic driver here in Saratoga County and beyond.