News & Press
Lake County Breaks Ground on New State-of-the-Art Terminal at Lake County Executive Airport
Willoughby, Ohio — July 29, 2025 — The Lake Development Authority proudly celebrated the groundbreaking of the new 5,800 sq. ft. terminal building at Lake County Executive Airport (LNN), marking a significant milestone in the county’s ongoing commitment to business growth, enhanced regional transportation infrastructure and welcoming travelers to Northeast Ohio.
The modern terminal, located on Lost Nation Road in Willoughby, will replace an aging facility and is designed to better serve corporate, recreational and community aviation needs. Features will include spacious passenger waiting areas, upgraded pilot amenities, modern meeting and conference spaces and dedicated facilities for airport operations and management — all built to accommodate growing demand.
“Close collaboration with our partners at Team NEO and Lake County were essential to constructing Lake County Executive Airport’s new, modern terminal,” said JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef. “The community understood that strong partnerships and a plan to replace the old terminal would make the county more attractive to businesses and visitors while expanding economic opportunities in Northeast Ohio.”
A shortage of pilots exists across Ohio and the United States, and classroom space inside the terminal will support full- and part-time students undergoing flight training, plus educate middle and high school students about the many aviation job opportunities available.
Ohio’s general aviation airports collectively support over 15,000 jobs and generate $1.85 billion in total economic output. Lake County Executive Airport alone supports dozens of based aircraft, tens of thousands of annual aircraft operations and numerous aviation-related businesses. Investing in the new terminal aligns with the projected $3.8 billion growth of Ohio’s aerospace sector through 2030 and reaffirms Lake County’s commitment to the local community, businesses and the broader aviation industry. Soon, travelers will experience a professional and welcoming facility — one that encourages new business investment and supports the continued growth of existing enterprises.
“This new terminal represents more than just bricks and mortar — it’s an investment in Lake County’s economic future,” said Executive Director Patrick T. Mohorcic. “By modernizing our airport infrastructure, we’re ensuring that Lake County remains an attractive destination for business, industry and leisure travelers alike.”
Lake County Commissioners praised the project’s impact on economic development and quality of life:
“Lake County is open for business, and this new terminal is proof of our commitment to building infrastructure that supports economic growth,” said Commission President Richard J. Regovich. “This investment ensures our airport can continue to serve local companies, attract new businesses and keep our economy moving forward.”
“We are proud to deliver a new airport terminal that reflects the excellence and hospitality of Lake County,” said Commissioner John T. Plecnik. “The Lake County Executive Airport is the first impression many travelers have of our county — and now it’s an impression of innovation, progress, and community pride.”
“The new terminal is a win for everyone — pilots, passengers, and our residents,” added Commissioner Morris W. Beverage. “It supports local jobs, boosts tourism and shows that Lake County is planning for the future.”
Matt Dolan, CEO of Team NEO, emphasized the project’s regional significance:
“Infrastructure like this modern terminal is essential for driving economic growth across Northeast Ohio,” Dolan said. “By investing in assets that connect businesses and communities, Lake County is helping strengthen our entire region’s competitiveness and appeal.”
Access to air travel plays a critical role for many businesses, and general aviation airports like Lake County Executive Airport support a significant share of corporate and executive travel. Investing in the airport to ensure it continues to grow and meet the needs of local businesses is vital to the health of the regional economy.
For media inquiries or more information, please contact:
Amy Cossick
Deputy Executive Director
Lake Development Authority
440-350-5345
acossick@ldauthority.org
Matt Englehart
Press Secretary
JobsOhio
202-415-5313
englehart@jobsohio.com
ABOUT JOBSOHIO
JobsOhio, Ohio's private nonprofit economic development corporation, enhances company growth and personnel development through business attraction, retention, and expansion across ten competitive industry sectors. With a team of seasoned professionals, JobsOhio utilizes a comprehensive network to foster talent production in targeted industries and attract talent through Find Your Ohio. Collaborating with seven regional partners, including Dayton Development Coalition, Lake to River Economic Development, Ohio Southeast Economic Development, One Columbus, REDI Cincinnati, Regional Growth Partnership, and Team NEO, JobsOhio delivers world-class customer service to provide companies with a competitive advantage. Learn more at www.jobsohio.com. Follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.
ABOUT TEAM NEO
Team NEO is a private, nonprofit economic development organization that ignites economic vibrancy, fosters sustainable growth, and champions equitable prosperity. As a designated JobsOhio Network Partner, we collaborate across all 14 counties in the Northeast Ohio Region to create strategies to attract and retain companies, drive innovation, cultivate a skilled workforce, advance market-ready sites, and promote and engage the region. To learn how Team NEO helps make Northeast Ohio more competitive, visit northeastohioregion.com.