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Top 10 Stories of 2025: Long Beach Airport Takes Off with Major Infrastructure and Experience Upgrades
By Staff Writer
Published on Wed, Dec 24, 2025
As 2025 comes to a close, Long Beach is celebrating the accomplishments that helped move the City forward—including major investments that transformed parks, streets and public spaces into safer, more accessible and welcoming places for the community.
One of the year’s standout achievements took place at Long Beach Airport (LGB), where a series of upgrades significantly improved traffic flow, accessibility and the overall traveler experience. In April, LGB officially completed its Terminal Roadway Improvements Project, delivering smoother drop-offs and pick-ups, safer pedestrian routes and clearer circulation throughout the terminal area. Travelers now benefit from expanded curb space, brighter lighting, updated signage, improved ramps and handrails, and clearly marked crosswalks—along with a host of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) enhancements designed to make travel easier for everyone. Behind the scenes, critical underground utility upgrades were also completed, including sewer line improvements connected to the Historic Terminal.
The $16.6 million project was funded through a combination of federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act dollars and Airport revenue, reflecting the City’s commitment to reinvesting in infrastructure that enhances daily experiences while preserving Long Beach’s unique character. That commitment paid off in more ways than one: officially trademarked as america’s coolest airport™, Long Beach Airport was also named the second-best airport in the nation by The Washington Post in 2025, recognized for its stress-free travel experience and exceptional customer service.
Adding to the momentum, LGB reached another milestone in December with the relocation of onsite rental car services into the Airport’s iconic Historic Terminal. For the first time in more than 30 years, rental car operators moved out of temporary modular trailers and into a permanent, modernized space just steps from the concourse exit. The transition brings improved efficiency, better queuing capacity and greater comfort for travelers—while celebrating the Historic Terminal’s restored 1941 Streamline Moderne design, following extensive seismic and preservation work.
The move also introduced new rental car brands to the Airport and marked one of the final elements of LGB’s $125 million Phase II Terminal Area Improvements Program, which focused on creating a smoother, more intuitive journey from curb to gate.
Together, these airport improvements reflect the same vision driving investments across Long Beach in 2025: thoughtful upgrades that balance functionality, accessibility and community pride. From neighborhood parks and safer streets to a nationally recognized airport experience, Long Beach continues to deliver projects that make everyday moments easier.
