LAX Allocates $1.5 Billion for Traffic Relief, Critics Doubt Effectiveness

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is embarking on an extensive $1.5 billion roadway improvement project ahead of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. While the Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) Board has approved funding, critics raise concerns about the plan’s effectiveness, particularly regarding the notorious traffic bottleneck known as the “horseshoe.”

Details of the Roadway Project

This initiative includes a final $1 billion phase aimed at enhancing traffic flow at LAX. Project completion is set for just two months before the Olympics, which presents several challenges for stakeholders.

Planned Improvements

• Reconfiguration of 4.4 miles of roadway.
• Creation of new off-ramps for better airport access.
• Implementation of three through lanes to enhance travel towards Imperial Highway and the 105 Freeway.
• Efforts to remove over 500 cars from Sepulveda Boulevard at peak times.

LAWA officials assert these upgrades will make travels safer, separating airport traffic from local vehicles. They aim to alleviate pressure on public roads like Sepulveda and Century boulevards.

Critiques and Skepticism

Despite the investment, industry experts express doubts regarding the plan’s long-term effectiveness. Jacob Wasserman, manager at the UCLA Institute of Transportation Studies, warns about “induced demand,” which indicates that increased roadway capacity often leads to more traffic congestion.

Critics have labeled the skyway remodel as a “zombie project,” as it proceeds with momentum despite the halted terminal expansion plans. These changes in LAX were initially anticipated due to projections of over 100 million annual visitors, which have not materialized since the pandemic.

Challenges Ahead

The tight timeline is another concern. Many believe LAWA’s reliance on Flatiron-Dragados, a contractor with a problematic history involving other infrastructure projects, could jeopardize the timely completion of the roadway enhancements.

Feedback from Community Leaders

Local resident Cord Thomas, among others, is vocal about the inadequacies of the current plans. He continues to advocate for better-informed community involvement, especially regarding pedestrian safety features.

In response to the skepticism, LAWA maintains that they have improved their approach based on previous experiences. Phase one of this project aims to open before the Olympics, with outbound routes expected by 2030.

Conclusion

While the $1.5 billion investment for traffic relief at LAX represents a significant commitment to infrastructure, concerns about its effectiveness and the potential for continued congestion remain. Residents and officials alike will be closely observing the project’s progress as the 2028 Games approach.