amplifies this economic engine, with state funding of $27 million driving a project that includes everything from geothermal heating to a restaurant overlooking the runway. This build out of the existing terminal is now complete and the city is eagerly anticipating the grand opening on July 26th, 2025. Milton holds strategic advantages beyond its airport. The town hosts most of Saratoga County’s government buildings and serves as the de facto county seat. Its location, just five minutes from Saratoga Race Course, positions it perfectly to capture overflow from the tourist influx that generates an estimated $9 million in economic impact per racing day. “We’re the third largest town in the county,” Ostrander notes, “and obviously one of the fastest growing municipalities within our county itself.” John Olenik, Director of Economic Planning, envisions the new terminal as more than functional infrastructure. “We’re trying to make Milton a destination point that’s going to have some sort of identity,” he explains. The design embraces an Adirondack aesthetic with contemporary touches, featuring wraparound porches and locally sourced materials. When completed in June 2025, the facility will include conference rooms, rental car services, and Alexis Diner, catering to both aviation traffic and local residents seeking upscale dining options near the runway. MILTON’S EVOLUTION FROM BEDROOM COMMUNITY TO DESTINATION Milton’s transformation from rural farmland to thriving suburb replicates broader shifts in American demographics. Founded in 1792, the town built its early economy on mills along the Kayaderosseras Creek, with paper manufacturing dominating the industrial landscape through the early 1900s.Today, a different economic reality drives growth. The proximity to Saratoga Springs creates both opportunity and pressure. Housing prices in Milton range from $250,000 to $500,000, while comparable properties in neighboring Saratoga Springs command $800,000 to over a million.“I think it’s a unique town because we have a lot of mom-and-pop stores, local businesses,” Ostrander says.The town’s retail success stories validate this assessment. Hannaford’s Milton location ranks as the chain’s most profitable store, while NAPA recently constructed its largest facility in the country here. Creating a cohesive identity drives current planning efforts. “When people come into our town, they’re going to see a very unique look,” Olenik promises. The town mandates architectural consistency along its commercial corridors, requiring uniform sidewalks and lighting that complement the emerging craftsman aesthetic. “We do have a requirement along with the structural part of it for sidewalks and 3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 07 MILTON, NY
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