Long Beach Airport to Undergo $37 Million Passenger Concourse Modernization

Long Beach Airport to Undergo $37 Million Passenger Concourse Modernization

Contact:
Lindsey Phillips
562.570.2678
[email protected]
Acting Public Affairs Officer
Long Beach Airport

Long Beach, CA - Long Beach Airport will receive $37 million in infrastructure upgrades to modernize the passenger concourse, spanning various projects that will enhance the post-security passenger experience just in time for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games. Authorization for the construction contract was recently approved by the Long Beach City Council with a vote of 7 to 0 during the Oct. 14, 2025, meeting.

"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 anticipated 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.

"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," said Fifth District Councilwoman Megan Kerr. "After more than a century of service, this project ensures LGB keeps soaring as one of Southern California's most welcoming gateways."

"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, advocated for by U.S. Congressman Robert Garcia. The remaining cost will be covered by Airport revenue, with no local tax dollars utilized. Following a competitive recruitment process, PCL Construction Services, Inc. was awarded the construction contract valued at $28 million.

"As the former Mayor of Long Beach, I know how valuable our airport is for our City's economy and residents," said Congressman Garcia. "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."

"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 jobs as a key asset for the City and region at large.

Officially trademarked as america's coolest airport™, LGB provides a distinctively stress-free travel experience and first-class service, conveniently located between Los Angeles and Orange counties. Ranked second in the nation by The Washington Post, LGB is a favorite among travelers for its easygoing atmosphere. The Airport currently offers nonstop service to 21 destinations and one-stop connections to more than 400 cities worldwide via Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Hawaiian Airlines. Learn more at lgb.org.

About the City of Long Beach
Long Beach is nestled along the Southern California coast and home to approximately 466,000 people. As an award-winning full-service charter city, Long Beach offers the amenities of a metropolitan city while maintaining a strong sense of individual and diverse neighborhoods, culture and community. With a bustling downtown and over six miles of scenic beaches, Long Beach is a renowned tourist and business destination and home to the iconic Queen Mary, nationally recognized Aquarium of the Pacific and Long Beach Airport, award-winning Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center and world-class Port of Long Beach.

For more information about the City of Long Beach, visit longbeach.gov/. Follow us on social to keep up with the latest news: Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. More information about Long Beach Airport is available at lgb.org and on Facebook, Instagram and X @LGBAirport.