Long Beach Airport Starts $37 Million Concourse Revamp for 2028 Olympics

TL;DR: Long Beach Airport has broken ground on a $37 million passenger‑concourse renovation, with more than $24 million coming from a Federal Aviation Administration grant, targeting completion by summer 2027 ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games.

The project kicks off as the city prepares to host millions of visitors for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic events. Construction, led by PCL Construction Services, will modernize the 2012‑era terminal that serves an average of 2.5 million passengers annually.

Key elements include a full remodel of the 11 gate areas, upgraded restrooms, and a dedicated service‑animal relief zone. The central garden will receive new hardscape, seating, canopies, lighting, and a public‑address system. Travelers will find enhanced wayfinding signage, larger flight‑information displays, and seating equipped with charging stations. Two open‑air garden spaces will be added to the north and south ends of the concourse, extending the airport’s Southern‑California aesthetic.

Mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems will be replaced, and a backup generator installed to improve reliability. Sustainability upgrades feature LED lighting and other energy‑saving measures. An exterior pedestrian canopy will be lengthened to cover Pad 11, improving passenger flow between the terminal and aircraft.

Mayor Rex Richardson framed the investment as a long‑term boost for the city and its travelers, emphasizing that the upgraded facilities will deliver a “modern, comfortable and uniquely Southern California travel experience.” The Federal Aviation Administration’s grant of over $24 million covers the majority of the budget, reducing the financial burden on the municipality.

The timing aligns with the airport’s broader strategy to maintain its status as an award‑winning regional hub while meeting the heightened security and capacity demands of a global sporting event. Completion in summer 2027 gives the airport a year to test systems and train staff before the Olympic influx.

What it means: The renovation positions Long Beach Airport to handle a surge in international traffic, potentially increasing passenger numbers and commercial revenue. It also sets a benchmark for mid‑size airports seeking to balance sustainability with passenger experience.

Watch for the next phase of airport upgrades, including runway improvements and expanded parking, as the 2028 Games approach.