LAX Expected to Debut New People Mover for Airport Navigation by 2023
The $4.9 billion contract to build the Automated People Mover is the largest contract ever awarded in the city’s history
Los Angeles International Airport will soon see the long-awaited Automated People Mover (APM) come to life. The train will connect travelers directly to airport terminals and create new and convenient locations for passenger pick-up and drop-off outside the Central Terminal Area. The historic infrastructure project will transform public transportation, reduce traffic congestion, and deliver a world-class experience for travelers at LAX.
The initiative is part of an overall $14 billion transformation of LAX that began in 2009.
The train is the centerpiece of the Landside Access Modernization Program (LAMP), which also includes a Consolidated Rent-A-Car (ConRAC) facility and associated roadway improvements. Once completed in 2023, the APM will connect with L.A. Metro’s light rail system.
“Connecting Metro rail with the airport is going to be a game-changer,” said L.A. Councilmember Mike Bonin. “This project will take cars off of the road and improve the passenger experience by giving people a convenient, fast, and viable alternative to driving. This is great for the traveling public and it’s the next big step in moving Los Angeles and our airport forward.”
Convenience, reliability and accessibility are at the heart of the project. Trains will arrive every two minutes, have wide doors for easy access, large windows for viewing, and plenty of hand holds and seats for those in need. Station platforms are open air and will have escalators, elevators, and moving walkways for quick access to the terminals. The trains will relieve traffic congestion and are expected to serve 30 million travelers annually from 2023.
A 30-year, $4.9 billion contract was given to LINXS last April, marking the largest contract ever awarded in the city’s history. Since then, LINXS has focused on finalizing the design of the guideway, operations systems, and stations along the 2.25-mile path — work that now allows for the start of major construction on the project. Through this public-private partnership contracting model, LINXS is designing, building, and financing the project and is also responsible for operating and maintaining the trains and stations for a 30-year period.
More information: FlyLAX.com/ConnectingLAX.
