Ahead of the 2028 Olympics in the Los Angeles area, construction is set to begin before the year’s end at the Long Beach Airport for a $37 million concourse modernization.
The Passenger Concourse Enhancement Project aims to upgrade aging infrastructure constructed more than a decade ago. Plans 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,” according to the city.
“Our award-winning Airport is one of the best in the nation, offering travelers a uniquely Long Beach experience,” Mayor Rex Richardson said in a statement. “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.”
Officials expect construction to begin in late 2025, with expected project completion in 2027. No impacts to commercial flights are anticipated, “and gate access will be accommodated” during construction work.
“This refresh is not just aesthetic — it’s about expanding LGB’s reputation as a premier airport that offers travelers an experience that is distinctly Long Beach,” 5th District Councilwoman Megan Kerr said in a statement. “After more than a century of service, this project ensures LGB keeps soaring as one of Southern California’s most welcoming gateways.”
District 4 Councilman Daryl Supernaw added, “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.”
The concourse upgrade $37 million cost is funded with $24 million from a Federal Aviation Administration Airport Infrastructure Grant. Airport revenue will cover the rest of the project’s cost “with no local tax dollars utilized,” city officials said.
PCL Construction Services Inc. was awarded the $28 million construction contract. Officials estimate the project will generate 190 construction jobs.
“As the former Mayor of Long Beach, I know how valuable our airport is for our City’s economy and residents,” Rep. Robert Garcia, D-Long Beach, said in a statement. “This investment will modernize our Airport to make it more sustainable, safer and efficient for years to come. I’m eager to see how these upgrades will improve the travel experience for folks, support businesses and create good jobs for our community.”
Airport Director Cynthia Guidry in a statement thanked the FAA for the grant funding and added that mondernization “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 Long Beach Airport offers nonstop service to 21 destinations and one-stop connections to more than 400 cities globally via Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines and Hawaiian Airlines, officials said.
