(Los Angeles) U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg today announced that Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) will receive $50 million as part of the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help reconstruct and modernize its terminal roadway systems, including a reconfiguration of the main entrance to the airport.
"Americans deserve modern airports that meet the needs of their families and growing passenger demand," said Secretary Buttigieg. "Funded through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, today’s grants will improve airport terminals while also creating good jobs in communities across the country.”
The award to LAX will help build nearly eight miles of roads leading to and within the Central Terminal Area at LAX, including a reconfigured gateway entrance that will help alleviate traffic congestion. Improved terminal roadways, in tandem with the forthcoming Automated People Mover system, will dramatically change how the traveling public enters and exits LAX, the fifth-busiest airport in the world.
President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides a total of $25 billion in formula allocations over five years for airport infrastructure projects as defined under the Airport Improvement Grant program, including $5 billion over five years in competitive grants under the Airport Terminals Program, one of three aviation programs created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Secretary Buttigieg, Rep. Maxine Waters and Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti made the announcement at a press event held at LAX's iconic Theme Building this afternoon.
“I was proud to vote for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, that continues to deliver for California,” said U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla, who was unable to attend today's event in person. “The new funding announced today will provide millions of dollars to modernize terminal roadways at Los Angeles International Airport and create good-paying jobs. This is a win for Californians and the millions who come from around the world each year to visit the region.”
“I was very pleased when Los Angeles World Airports agreed to modernize LAX in order to improve safety and efficiency and enhance the passenger experience, and do so in a way that would not cause adverse impacts for the people who live nearby," said Rep. Waters. "I congratulate LAWA for consulting with its surrounding communities and for earning the support of a diverse group of local stakeholders, including the Neighborhood Council of Westchester Playa, which represents many of my constituents who live in close proximity to the airport."
“LAX is our gateway to the world, and every dollar we invest today to help realize its full potential will create prosperity for our region for generations to come,” said Mayor Eric Garcetti. “When complete, this project made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the leadership of Secretary Buttigieg will help transform LAX into a more accessible, visitor-friendly destination – and join a long list of projects that are turning LAX into one of the premier airports in the world.”
Today's announcement also included remarks by Beatrice Hsu, President of the Los Angeles Board of Airport Commissioners (BOAC) and Chris Hannan, Los Angeles/Orange Counties Building & Construction Trades Council Executive Secretary.
"President Biden, Secretary Buttigieg and the entire administration has been steadfast in their support for rebuilding our nation’s critical infrastructure," Hsu said. "That is exactly what we are doing here in Los Angeles as we continue work on our multi-billion-dollar modernization – one of the largest capital programs of any airport in the country today. We are grateful for this $50 million grant, which will be used to create a better roadway experience for travelers accessing LAX."
