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Millions of dollars in airport renovations hope to spark an economic boom in Westmoreland County

LATROBE — Major renovations at Arnold Palmer Regional Airport have been completed, and local leaders are hoping the $18 million in upgrades will bring an economic boost to Westmoreland County.

”When you’re flying out of Arnold Palmer Regional Airport, we want you to have a sense of pride and a true sense of place. All of the installations are things you see every day,” said Ann Nemanic, of GO Laurel Highlands.

GO Laurel Highlands, county leaders and airport executives collaborated to bring the region to life, enhancing the terminal and showcasing southwestern Pennsylvania to the 350,000 passengers that use the terminal annually.

”We think it’s an important part of the region, and ... it is a great way to show people what we have to offer,” said Gabe Monzo, executive director of Arnold Palmer Regional Airport.

“As visitors are leaving the county or coming into the county, they get to see what true assets we truly have in this county. So, it’s an exciting day to be here to make the airport shine that much more,” said Westmoreland County Commissioner Sean Kertes.

It was about a year in the making — but 40 installations were added to the upper and lower floors of the airport.

There’s even a resource wall that can be used as a virtual tour guide to the Laurel Highlands.

“All you need to do is focus your phone on a QR code. It will land you on a page where you’ll be able to find all the information you need for not only Westmoreland County but the Laurel Highlands.”

The new artwork on display at the airport was funded by the county’s lodging occupancy tax.