MONROE COUNTY EXECUTIVE ADAM BELLO UNVEILS NEW FREDERICK DOUGLASS AIRFIELD OBSERVATORY AND EXHIBITS AT FREDERICK DOUGLASS GREATER ROCHESTER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Redesigned observation deck exhibits the life and legacy of civil rights

leader and longtime Rochester & Monroe County resident Frederick Douglass

ROCHESTER, NY — Monroe County Executive Adam Bello today unveiled the new Frederick

Douglass Airfield Observatory at the Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International

Airport. Joining him were local dignitaries and Kenneth Morris, founder and president of

Frederick Douglass Family Initiatives (FDFI), and a direct descendant of Frederick Douglass.

The redesigned observation deck has been transformed into a high-tech visitor center

designed to introduce visitors to Douglass and the Rochester community that he called

home. The new observatory showcases adaptable exhibits and cutting-edge interactive

learning tools. The Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport airfield now

features a large welcome sign celebrating Douglass for all departing and arriving passengers to see.

“Frederick Douglass holds an unparalleled place of prominence in the history of

Rochester and Monroe County. We proudly honor his contributions and his

connections to our community through these exhibits,” said County Executive Bello.

“This tribute to Douglass is possible thanks to Governor Kathy Hochul, the New York

State Department of Transportation, our New York State delegation, Senators Schumer

and Gillibrand, and Congressman Joe Morelle.”

Frederick Douglass, a towering figure in American history, escaped slavery and became a

leading abolitionist, orator, writer, and statesman. He lived in Rochester from 1847 to 1872,

where he published his influential newspaper, The North Star, and remained a prominent

voice for civil rights and women's suffrage. His legacy extends far beyond the abolition of

slavery, encompassing a tireless fight for equality and justice for all, leaving an indelible mark

on the struggle for human rights in the United States and inspiring future generations to

continue the pursuit of a more just society.

The observation deck is part of the $32 million airport renovation project that was funded by a

$27 million New York State Department of Transportation grant and a $5 million federal

Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law grant.

“Today we honor the enduring legacy of Frederick Douglass and reaffirm our community’s

commitment to justice, resilience, and hope,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “This

observatory will greet every visitor with a message about who we are—and the

responsibility we all share to keep marching forward in pursuit of equality and freedom.”

“The Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport is relied upon by

Rochesterians and visitors alike to get from Point A to Point B. I’m proud to support this

meaningful investment and celebrate the newly redesigned observation deck, paying

tribute to the extraordinary legacy of Frederick Douglass,” said State Senator Jeremy

Cooney.

“Thanks to County Executive Bello, the NYS Department of Transportation, our

state delegation, and our federal partners for helping to make this possible and maintain

our airport as a symbol of pride for our community.”

“It’s been my honor to help develop the Frederick Douglass Airfield Observatory,” said

Kenneth B. Morris, Jr., president of Frederick Douglass Family Initiatives and a member of

the airport’s exhibit committee.

“The installation provides an opportunity for Rochester- area residents—especially students—and for travelers passing through one of the city’s most visible gateways to connect with a story that shaped this community and changed the nation. For many young people, it will be their first genuine encounter with the life and legacy of Frederick Douglass and the Douglass family in Rochester. We hope that this installation sparks curiosity, conversation, and a deeper understanding of Rochester’s pivotal place in the American struggle for freedom and human rights.”