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Stewart an economic force for Valley

In the 25 years that I’ve been president of the Orange County Chamber of Commerce, the chamber has actively promoted Stewart International Airport as a strong regional airport and not a “fourth major jetport” for the New York City metro area. It is gratifying to see the airport’s new owner, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, appears to be in agreement.

The Orange County Chamber welcomes the Port Authority as it takes over Stewart Airport and we’re pleased to hear the Port Authority appears to be interested in soliciting input from the community via establishment of a citizens commission.

Over the past quarter-century, a lot has happened at Stewart. A few highlights include:

- In 1982, the state Legislature transferred operations for the airport to the state DOT from the MTA, mandating aviation and other economic development.

- In 1990, American Airlines began commercial passenger service with three daily roundtrips to Chicago and Raleigh/Durham.

- In 1999, then-Gov. George Pataki signed a 99-year lease with National Express to operate the airport.

- On March 31, 2000, Stewart became the nation’s first commercial airport to be privatized.

- On Nov. 1, 2007, the Port Authority is expected to assume management of Stewart International Airport.

These are all positive developments, and the business community ­ and the community in general ­ looks forward to many more steps forward for the airport under the auspices of the Port Authority. The Orange County Chamber of Commerce and dozens of other community-minded organizations recognize that Stewart Airport not only benefits the economy of Orange County, but it also is very much the key economic driver for the entire Hudson Valley.

A successful regional airport like Stewart will ensure greater success for businesses here in the Hudson Valley, as well as provide greater travel opportunities for those seeking leisure travel.

John A. D’Ambrosio

President

Orange County Chamber of Commerce

 

 

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