The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey marked three years Tuesday of the acquisition of Stewart International (SWF).
As part of the celebration, the port pledged to continue to expand the airport to meet the growing needs of the region. By the end of the month, it will complete a new Federal Inspection Services facility to allow for the arrival and processing of international travelers; this is being done in preparation for the Mexican charter service that is starting in 2011, and the airport will build a permanent facility as part of the upcoming terminal expansion.
The anniversary comes on the heels of the port authority board of commissioners authorizing $2M in planning work for the expansion of the terminal, including the FIS facility. In addition, it also passed a two-year air service development incentive program for passenger airlines and charter tour operators to begin non-stop service to new markets.
“The Port Authority’s stewardship of the Stewart Airport since taking it over three years ago has been exemplary,” says Gov. David Paterson. “With the recent announcement of $2M to make way for the expansion of a larger, more state-of-the-art passenger terminal, the port authority has affirmed its commitment to the development of the airport as a viable fourth alternative for commuters flying in and out of the New York metropolitan area. I salute the port authority on its third anniversary as the owner and operator of Stewart Airport.”
Delta Air Lines also announced that it plans to double service from SWF to its main hub at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International (ATL).
“The port authority remains more committed than ever to Stewart International Airport, says Chris Ward, port authority executive director. “We are working every day on ideas big and small to make sure Stewart gets the Port Authority standard of service that the Hudson Valley region deserves, and we thank all of our federal and local partners for helping to realize the vision of transforming this underused airport into an engine of economic growth,”
In the past year, the port authority has put several customer service initiatives in place, such as 800 new parking spaces, pay-on-foot stations in the terminals, an express pay lane and additional entrances and exits.
In addition, the port authority has made investments in the airport to realign and rehabilitate roadways, replace roofs and improve the taxiway edge lighting systems. There are also new customer care representatives, new wayfinding signs, baggage carts, extra seating in the baggage-claim and gate areas, and expanded bus service to the Beacon Train Station.
And in an effort to help further green practices, the port authority has put in place a Stewart Sustainability Plan.
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