California Construction News staff writer
Long Beach Airport will receive $37 million in infrastructure upgrades to modernize the passenger concourse in time for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games. Authorization for the construction contract was approved Oct. 14 by the Long Beach City Council with a vote of 7 to 0.
Following a competitive recruitment process, PCL Construction Services, Inc. was awarded the construction contract valued at $28 million.
“Our award-winning Airport is one of the best in the nation, offering travelers a uniquely Long Beach experience,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “This project will not only enhance LGB’s indoor and outdoor passenger experience, it will create nearly 200 local construction jobs. As we plan to welcome the world for the 2028 Games, bold investments are being made to continue to ensure every visitor’s first impression reflects the hospitality of our City.”
The Passenger Concourse Enhancement Project is designed to further elevate Long Beach Airport’s existing reputation as a relaxed, Southern California travel experience while addressing aging infrastructure first constructed in 2012. Planned enhancements include:
- Improvements to passenger circulation, including queuing and seating configurations;
- Mechanical, electrical and plumbing upgrades, including replacement of air-conditioning components and updated restrooms;
- Upgraded seating with more electrical chargers;
- Creation of an open-air garden area at the exterior of the north concourse;
- More wayfinding signage and flight information displays;
- New flooring, gate podiums and a Service Animal Relief Area; as well as
- Sustainability upgrades, including LED lighting conversions.
Construction is expected to begin in late 2025, with work scheduled for completion in 2027. No impacts to commercial flights are expected, and gate access will be accommodated during construction.
“For the 2028 Games and beyond, these concourse improvements highlight the City’s commitment to keep investing in Long Beach Airport’s future, ensuring it remains a modern, welcoming place for generations of travelers to come,” said Fourth District Councilman Daryl Supernaw.
The Passenger Concourse Enhancements Project has an estimated total cost of $37 million, with $24 million funded through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airport Infrastructure Grant program under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The remaining cost will be covered by Airport revenue, with no local tax dollars utilized.
“We’re grateful to the FAA for this significant investment,” said Airport Director Cynthia Guidry. “This project ensures our award-winning indoor/outdoor concourse remains a premier travel destination and gateway to Southern California with enhanced passenger comfort, sustainability and operational efficiency.”
The Passenger Concourse Enhancement Project is estimated to generate 190 construction jobs. The work builds upon the impact of the Long Beach Airport Complex, which already generates an estimated$9 billion in annual economic output and supports 42,000 jobsas a key asset for the city and region at large.
