Saturday, August 23, 2025

Tweed-New Haven Airport makes progress on the design of the new terminal

Officials from Tweed-New HavenAirport announced Thursday that major progress is being made in the design of the facility's new 84,000-square-foot East Terminal.

Currently, the design for this upcoming project is 60% complete.

A statement from the team at the airport noted that a new environmental permit application was also submitted to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, or DEEP, in April.

With these advancements, the airport is gaining momentum on its path toward modernization.

RELATED:Tweed-New Haven Airport earns prestigious 'Inclusion in Aviation' award

"This milestone is a testament to years of planning, collaboration and innovation," said Michael Jones, CEO of The New HVN.

Robert Reed, chairman of the Tweed-New Haven Airport Authority, added that with every step forward, the airport is proving it is more than just an airport.

"It's becoming a powerful engine of economic growth for our region," Reed said.

Airport officials say that at this stage, big-picture decisions such as the terminal layout, footprint and systems planning have been finalized. Meanwhile, enough detail has been developed to facilitate regulatory approvals, cost estimates and construction planning.

The milestone that has been reached enables transparent dialogue with local communities, as airport leaders gather feedback and refine approaches as the permitting process advances.

This also clears the way for state permits. The permit filed with DEEP will ensure the project is in line with wetlands, flood resilience and habitat protection standards.

The progress made on the design also offers a credible and buildable vision to show community members and regulators what the incoming terminal will look like, while still allowing flexibility for input before the beginning of construction.

Airport officials add that reaching 60% completion on the terminal design signals project momentum. They hope this demonstrates to airlines, partners and the public that the airport expansion is advancing through real, federally recognized stages.

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Key highlights of the terminal will include blending modern form with natural textures and colors from around the region; using materials such as natural wood facades, zinc and pewter finishes; and installing architectural screens.

The design is intended to promote both durability and warmth, as the terminal will be a gateway to Southern Connecticut.

The interior concept experience is also being prioritized. It is expected to serve as a welcoming haven, reflecting the region's history as a place of community and safe harbor.

There will be bright colors to evoke energy and ease, and artwork and design elements will be placed throughout the terminal to celebrate the state's changing seasons and creative spirit.

Environmental stewardship is also being considered important. The East Terminal Plan considers strong environmental mitigation and sustainability measures.

This includes restoring more than 32 acres of tidal wetlands, preserving 25 acres of grassland bird habitat, and enhancing food resilience by raising the terminal above the 100-year floodplain.

Jones said that his team is excited to share the progress and continue refining the design with input from various stakeholders.

RELATED:New Tweed-New Haven Airport program will improve indoor air quality in surrounding neighborhoods

"Through these renderings, our community can see the vision of a modernized Tweed that combines enhanced air travel, economic growth and economic responsibility," Jones said.

Reed spoke further about what the new terminal will mean for the surrounding community.

"This expansion brings opportunities for businesses, good jobs for residents and momentum for Southern Connecticut's economy," Reed said.

The airport team is working hard to finalize design elements early and streamline the DEEP permitting process to reduce risks and keep the project on track for timely completion.

When completed, it is expected that the East Terminal will serve rising air service demand through at least 2040 while creating new jobs and redefining convenience for travelers from across the region and country.

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Dalton Zbierski is a digital content producer and writer at FOX61 News. He can be reached atdzbierski@FOX61.com.

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