WHITE PLAINS, NY (March 4, 2026) — Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins announced the selection of HNTB to lead a comprehensive feasibility study and concept design for modernization of the passenger terminal at Westchester County Airport (HPN).
The selection, announced Wednesday, is part of an effort by the county to reimagine the decades-old terminal and provide what officials described as a more modern, efficient and passenger-friendly experience while maintaining full county ownership and operational control of the airport.
Jenkins said the existing terminal does not adequately meet passengers’ basic needs.
“We all deeply value flying out of Westchester County Airport, but the reality is the currently terminal is not functional for basic needs like having a cup of coffee, sitting down on a chair or going to the bathroom,” Jenkins said. “When flying out of HPN, we want our passengers to be safe and comfortable. Selecting HNTB with industry-leading expertise in airport planning and design is an important step toward delivering that experience. This is not expansion this is modernization – and we desperately need it.”
County officials said the selection followed a procurement process led by the Westchester County Department of Public Works and Transportation, which conducted national research to identify firms with experience in terminal concept planning and aviation design.
Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Vedat Gashi said the project is intended to improve the experience for travelers using the airport.
“This is great news for Westchester residents and everyone who travels through our airport,” Gashi said. “Today’s announcement moves us closer to giving airport visitors the experience they deserve. We’re taking a careful, responsible approach to modernizing an aging terminal while ensuring the County remains firmly in control of its future. I’m happy we’re taking this important step forward.”
County Legislator Nancy Barr said travelers frequently raise concerns about the terminal’s limited amenities.
“Westchester County residents and visitors enjoy the convenience of traveling in and out of HPN but people often complain about the lack of adequate seating, bathrooms and eating options, particularly once they have gone through security,” Barr said. “Changes that were made post 9-11 have created challenges for those who have to get to the terminal two hours early or whose flights get delayed. I look forward to seeing creative ideas for modernizing the space.”
HNTB’s New York office leader Mike Mangione said the firm will work with county officials and stakeholders on modernization concepts.
“We’re proud to partner with Westchester County on this important next step for the airport,” Mangione said. “Our focus will be collaborating with the airport and stakeholders to explore modernization concepts that improve comfort and efficiency for travelers and create a terminal experience that truly matches how people travel today.”
Nick Hartman, chair of the Airport Advisory Board, said the terminal has served the community for decades but needs updates to meet modern expectations.
“The passenger terminal at HPN has served our community for decades, but it’s time to bring the customer experience in line with what travelers expect in 2026 and beyond — within the operational limits that define HPN’s unique character,” Hartman said. “The Airport Advisory Board is eager to partner with the County in shaping what comes next for this vital gateway for our region.”
County officials said a Pre-Qualification Board convened in August, followed by review by the Professional Selection Board in September. Eleven nationally recognized firms were approved to participate in the request for proposals process. After evaluation of submissions, interviews and technical review, HNTB was recommended to the county executive for final approval.
The request for proposals called for a feasibility study that will produce terminal modernization concepts. The study will examine maintaining the existing terminal footprint while reimagining the current 96,000-square-foot, three-level structure and its 700-linear-foot frontage.
The study will also evaluate nearby areas that could be repurposed, including frontage roadways, loading dock areas and rental car quick-turn and ready lots, and will align the redesigned terminal with current industry standards and passenger expectations.
County officials said all future phases of the project will continue to follow Terminal Use Regulations, including the airport’s operational limit of 240 passengers per half-hour. The county said it will continue to engage the Airport Advisory Board and other stakeholders as the project advances.
HNTB recently supported Garden City Regional Airport in delivering a new terminal and currently serves as program manager for the John F. Kennedy International Airport Redevelopment Program. The firm also served as architect and structural engineer of record on the Des Moines International Airport’s 22-gate expansion project.
This article was prepared with the assistance of AI tools under the direction and editing of Robert Cox.