Albany International Airport Breaks Ground on Transformative Terminal Expansion

CHA Consulting, Inc. (CHA) an innovative, full-service engineering, design, consulting, and program management firm joined the Albany County Airport Authority, the Governor of New York State, and other state and local dignitaries to break ground on a transformative airport terminal expansion project. The airport’s vision is to create a gateway to the Capital Region. CHA’s design is intended to create warmth and a sense of place from the moment the traveler arrives at the airport.

CHA is providing design and construction administration services for the terminal project which includes expanding the TSA security check-in, queuing and repose space, upgrades to the ticketing and baggage claim, renovation and upgrades to the Business Center, and the design of an airside children’s play area and sensory room.

“Our partnership with the Albany County Airport Authority is going to produce one of the most impressive terminals in the Northeast,” said Jeremy P. Martelle C.M., ACE, ASC, CHA’s Northeast Aviation Design Team Leader and Project Executive. “Together we are reimaging the traveler experience and designing a terminal for the future.”

Upon arrival at the airport terminal, the traveler will be greeted by a light and airy canopy that draws the visitor toward the large central connector. Green space will be added, and a courtyard will be created to soften the existing masonry terminal. Once the traveler enters the connector, digital signage and bright, visible wayfinding will guide them through the bright and inviting space. The queuing area will be enlarged, providing additional space for each  lane for travelers to safely maintain distance from each other. Once through the TSA checkpoint, travelers will find ample space to recompose before traversing to their gate.

Special design consideration has been directed to travelers with children and those having special needs. Families with children will be able to relax while their children play and interact in a new play area. Those with sensory needs can take a moment to disconnect from the activity of the busy airport and relax in a new sensory room.

In addition to Governor Kathy Hochul, NYSDOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez, Albany County Executive Dan McCoy, and Albany International Airport Chief Executive Officer Phil Calderone made remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony emphasizing the significance and excitement surrounding this project. The project is expected to be complete by Spring 2025.