In one of the largest individual building projects in Los Angeles’s history, LAX is getting a $723 million facelift and going green at the same time.
In the works is a rehab of the one million square foot terminal, which has not been renovated since it opened in 1984.
In addition to an extensive makeover of public spaces, the work includes installing an in-line, checked-baggage security system and constructing a second boarding gate for new large aircraft, which will add 45,000 square feet of new space.
The work is in keeping with a green building policy that L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and the city’s Board of Airport Commissioners adopted in January.
The policy commits Los Angeles World Airports, which manages LAX and three other Southern California airports, to incorporate green standards into all future construction.
At LAX, recycled content will be used in glass walls, metal ceilings, and the carpet (which will be backed with low-VOC adhesives).
In addition, more than 75% of the construction and demolition waste will be recycled or salvaged.
New, efficient HVAC and lighting systems will be installed — and green power will come from photovoltaic arrays and from the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, which will provide 100% of the airport’s electricity from renewable sources.
A combination of airport revenues, passenger facility charges, and airline reimbursements will fund the project cost. Work started last month.
The terminal will remain operational during renovations.
Report by David Wilkening
