LAX to receive $50 million in funding to help modernise roadways

US Secretary of Transportation, Pete Buttigieg, has announced that Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) will receive $50 million as part of the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help reconstruct and modernise 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 travelling 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.

“LAX is our gateway to the world, and every dollar we invest today to help realise its full potential will create prosperity for our region for generations to come,” said 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.”

Elsewhere in California, San Diego International Airport is to receive $24 million in discretionary grant funds as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – Airport Terminals Program.

The funds will be used for the New T1 program, which will replace the current Terminal 1 with a modern and efficient facility and includes improvements to the airfield, and transportation improvements to make it easier to get to and from the airport.

“These funds are crucial to our continued efforts to transform San Diego’s air transportation gateway,” said Kimberly Becker, San Diego County Regional Airport Authority President and CEO.

“This grant money will be used for the New T1 program. We thank the Federal Aviation Administration for awarding the funds.”