Travelers accustomed to the familiar sight of the LAX gateway sign will need to adjust their visual cues as Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) begins to dismantle the iconic landmark this evening. In pursuit of alleviating congestion, LAWA is embarking on a major revamp of the roadway structures surrounding Los Angeles International Airport. According to a statement obtained by CBS Los Angeles, this effort is a drive to "ease the traffic surrounding the airport by separating airport-bound vehicles from other commuters on Sepulveda Boulevard."
"Today marks a significant milestone for LAX as we continue to innovate, evolve and transform LAX into a more efficient and accessible airport," Michael Christensen, chief airport development officer of LAWA, told LAWA's News Release. The process of removing the letters will be stretched across approximately a week, with an estimated two-night span to carefully dismantle each character, starting with the letter "X."
LAWA has its sights on creating a streamlined and world-class airport experience. The upgrades aren't just limited to the roadways but will also enhance pedestrian pathways and signage. As the known "LAX" letters enter their temporary hibernation, there is reassurance from Christensen that "our teams and contracting partners will be hard at work on roadway improvements that will provide long-term benefits to employees, travelers and our surrounding communities," as per LAWA.
It's expected that the roadways project will significantly reduce traffic loads, with predictions to "remove over 500 cars from Sepulveda Boulevard at any given time," LAWA stated. The ambitious project, forming part of LAX's Airfield & Terminal Modernization Program, is intended to be fully operational by 2030 and aims to have the airport ready to efficiently serve the influx of visitors for events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
