The US $100mn expansion of New York’s Albany International Airport has begun according to Turner Construction. The project, which was designed by Gensler and engineering firm CHA, aims to increase passenger-handling capacity and eliminate bottlenecks at security.

In addition to major structural works, Turner will remove the existing rotunda and pedestrian bridge to build a new main entrance with glass curtain wall and light, translucent canopies overhead. It will remove the old security checkpoint and build a bigger one in a new location.

Other improvements include bigger seating and waiting areas, an expanded airside marketplace, and a public arts area and children’s play zone. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems will also be improved, the firm noted.

“Ask anyone who has flown out of Albany International Airport during peak hours and they will tell you the line for security can often back up into the pedestrian walkway and even all the way to the parking garage. While the airport is vibrant and growing, it was built long before modern TSA security screening, and for years has been in desperate need of expansion,” stated New York Senator Chuck Schumer.

The project received $60mn from New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s $230mn Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalisation Competition. Other beneficiaries included Syracuse, Rochester, Ogdensburg, and Saratoga County airports.