A family of travelers waits for their flight in the Long Beach Airport\u2019s planned modernized concourse. | Rendering courtesy of the city of Long Beach<\/p>\n
Ahead of the 2028 Olympics in the Los Angeles area, construction is set to begin before the year\u2019s end at the Long Beach Airport for a $37 million concourse modernization.<\/p>\n
The Passenger Concourse Enhancement Project<\/a>\u00a0aims to upgrade aging infrastructure constructed more than a decade ago. Plans include:<\/p>\n \u201cimprovements to passenger circulation, including queuing and seating configurations;<\/p>\n \u201cmechanical, electrical and plumbing upgrades, including replacement of air-conditioning components and updated restrooms;<\/p>\n \u201cupgraded seating with more electrical chargers;<\/p>\n \u201ccreation of an open-air garden area at the exterior of the north concourse;<\/p>\n \u201cmore wayfinding signage and flight information displays;<\/p>\n \u201cnew flooring, gate podiums and a Service Animal Relief Area; as well as<\/p>\n \u201csustainability upgrades, including LED lighting conversions,\u201d according to the city.<\/p>\n \u201cOur award-winning Airport is one of the best in the nation, offering travelers a uniquely Long Beach experience,\u201d Mayor Rex Richardson said in a statement. \u201cThis project will not only enhance LGB\u2019s 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\u2019s first impression reflects the hospitality of our City.\u201d<\/p>\n Officials expect construction to begin in late 2025, with expected project completion in 2027. No impacts to commercial flights are anticipated, \u201cand gate access will be accommodated\u201d during construction work.<\/p>\n \u201cThis refresh is not just aesthetic \u2014 it\u2019s about expanding LGB\u2019s reputation as a premier airport that offers travelers an experience that is distinctly Long Beach,\u201d 5th District Councilwoman Megan Kerr said in a statement. \u201cAfter more than a century of service, this project ensures LGB keeps soaring as one of Southern California\u2019s most welcoming gateways.\u201d<\/p>\n District 4 Councilman Daryl Supernaw added, \u201cFor the 2028 Games and beyond, these concourse improvements highlight the City\u2019s commitment to keep investing in Long Beach Airport\u2019s future, ensuring it remains a modern, welcoming place for generations of travelers to come.\u201d<\/p>\n The concourse upgrade $37 million cost is funded with $24 million from a Federal Aviation Administration\u00a0Airport Infrastructure Grant. Airport revenue will cover the rest of the project\u2019s cost \u201cwith no local tax dollars utilized,\u201d city officials said. <\/p>\n