WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. (WWLP) - Two major construction projects are underway at Bradley International Airport. Bradley International Airport named one of best in the nation The first project will provide passengers with a faster and more direct route to baggage claim while expanding the terminal's main TSA checkpoint. The second project will focus on a new facility for screening checked baggage, which will eliminate the need for passengers to bring their bags to the scanning machines after check-in with their airline. (Courtesy: Bradley International Airport)(Courtesy: Bradley International Airport)(Courtesy: Bradley International Airport)(Courtesy: Bradley International Airport)(Courtesy: Bradley International Airport)(Courtesy: Bradley International Airport) “Once complete, these projects will really optimize the way arriving and departing passengers move through Bradley International Airport,” said Kevin A. Dillon, A.A.E., Executive Director of the Connecticut Airport Authority (CAA). “The ongoing construction is also key to the CAA’s long-term strategy to ensure that our terminal meets the demand of our current passenger levels and also positions us for future growth in passenger traffic and nonstop destinations.” The approximately $243 million projects are expected to be completed late next year. Local News Headlines MassHealth, SNAP recipients to receive discounted utility bills National Fossil Day: Where to see fossils in western Massachusetts New Bedford man wins $20,000 a month for 10 years on instant ticket Goldberg seeking new chair as lawmakers mull CCC changes WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.