Rochester, New York—The Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport has successfully completed a $38 million comprehensive revitalization project, unveiled by Governor Kathy Hochul on December 2, 2025. The transformational initiative represents a significant investment in modernizing airport infrastructure, passenger experience, and community spaces across the greater Rochester region.
The revitalization project encompassed campus-wide innovations and terminal area enhancements designed to create a passenger experience befitting the 21st century traveler. Major improvements include:
Beyond operational improvements, the project included significant community-focused enhancements. The expansion of the William T. Perkins Jr. Veterans Area now provides a larger, dedicated space for reflection and gathering. The space features exhibits honoring service members from every branch of the military, paying tribute to the late Marine Corporal and Vietnam War photographer from Rochester who earned a posthumous Medal of Honor by sacrificing his own life to save three fellow soldiers.
The newly opened Frederick Douglass Cultural Area transformed the former observation deck into an educational experience, showcasing historical documents, artifacts, and displays that highlight Douglass's impact and his time in Rochester, connecting the airport's namesake to the community's identity.
The $38 million project was funded as part of the Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition, which awarded $230 million to nine upstate airports for revitalization projects. The initiative was announced by Governor Hochul in September 2022 and administered by the New York State Department of Transportation.
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello emphasized the project's significance: "You only have one chance at a first impression, and thanks to Governor Hochul and DOT Commissioner Dominguez, visitors to our airport are now greeted with top ten airport amenities and services."
The airport modernization supports the Rochester region's competitive position for business travel and cargo operations. The improvements create a more attractive gateway for companies considering the region, enhancing accessibility and operational efficiency. The project demonstrates New York State's commitment to strategic infrastructure investment in upstate communities.
Beyond Rochester, four other airports have completed their revitalization projects: Greater Binghamton/Edwin A. Link Field Airport, Saratoga County Airport, Syracuse Hancock International Airport, and Sullivan County International Airport. Additionally, Ogdensburg completed a $25 million expansion project. Construction work continues on projects at three additional airports scheduled for 2026: Albany International Airport, Adirondack Regional Airport, and Watertown International Airport.
The completed revitalization enhances Rochester's infrastructure competitiveness and positions the airport as a modern facility attracting business travel and cargo operations. The improvements reduce operational bottlenecks and create a professional first impression for visitors, supporting economic development efforts across the greater Rochester region.
Sources: 13WHAM (December 2, 2025), Governor Kathy Hochul Office of Public Affairs, Spectrum Local News, Monroe County Executive Office
Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport completes $38M transformational revitalization with new terminal, security, and infrastructure upgrades.
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