BY JEFF CHUDZINSKI
North Country This Week

OGDENSBURG — The Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority will see an $18 million influx to make improvements to the Ogdensburg International Airport after officials signed a grant agreement with the state Department of Transportation.

The approval came during the board’s Nov. 10 meeting, with officials saying the expansion should officially open by the end of 2024.

As part of the project a new jet bridge will be built, allowing the airport to accommodate different aircraft types while making boarding easier for passengers.

More ticketing counters will also be installed, allowing the airport to better handle larger flights with more passengers. A rental car booth will also be developed as part of the initial phase of construction.

The passenger pickup and drop-off area will also be covered with an extended canopy.

Security will be a priority as part of the project with upgraded security doors set to be installed along with new sprinklers. Other upgrades will include new information display systems.

Terminal renovations are also a large part of the project, officials say.

A convention center will be constructed and can be used while the airport runs, which will be available to the public.

Wi-Fi upgrades and a new HVAC system are also included in the terminal upgrade, officials say.

Electric vehicle charging stations will be installed in the designated parking area along with solar panels.

According to OBPA Executive Director Steven Lawrence, engineers have already received the go-ahead to start surveying and environmental work.