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View of airport construction area with fuel tanks in the foreground and terminal structures under development in the background.View of airport construction area with fuel tanks in the foreground and terminal structures under development in the background.

Environmental approvals for LAX improvements 

LAWA pursued environmental approvals for LAX airfield, terminal, and roadway improvements to enhance airfield safety, improve passenger experience, and reduce congestion. 

Client

Los Angeles World Airports

Location

Los Angeles, California

Markets

Connect with an expert

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Dave Jensen PE, PMP, BCEE
Environmental Engineer

CEQA and NEPA environmental review for LAX ATMP 

LAWA sought environmental approvals for the Airfield and Terminal Modernization Project at LAX, a $6 billion effort within the airport’s $14 billion modernization program. CDM Smith was selected for environmental review, developing the project definition, and specialized studies to obtain environmental clearance under CEQA and NEPA. The work addressed airfield, terminal, and landside roadway improvements intended to enhance airfield safety and operational management, improve passenger facilities, and reduce congestion.  

Secure CEQA and NEPA approvals 

CDM Smith led preparation of a comprehensive EIR under CEQA and an Environmental Assessment under NEPA, supporting approvals by local, state, and federal agencies.

Advance airfield and terminal upgrades 

Environmental review covered runway exit and taxiway modifications, a new Terminal 9, a new Concourse 0, and removal of outdated remote gates.

Improve airport roadway access 

CDM Smith developed conceptual designs and performed environmental review for roadway improvements that will redirect airport traffic off local thoroughfares to a dedicated new roadway system that will provide access to the Automated People Mover and public transit. 

Deliver innovative public engagement 

CDM Smith implemented a virtual public outreach program, including online meetings and hearings, in response to COVID19 restrictions.

Under a $16.3 million contract, CDM Smith led a multidisciplinary team that developed the project definition, prepared the CEQA Environmental Impact Report and the NEPA Environmental Assessment, and performed special studies to support project planning and execution. The CEQA process culminated in certification of the EIR by the Board of Airport Commissioners and the Los Angeles City Council, and the NEPA process resulted in issuance of a Record of Decision by the FAA. The work addressed air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, transportation measured by VMT, cultural resources, and general conformity, supporting one of the last major additions to LAX’s ongoing $14 billion modernization program. 

Curious to learn more?

Reach out to an expert to find out how we delivered this project.

Jensen_David-edit1.jpg

Dave Jensen

Environmental Engineer

Dave manages large, multi-disciplinary programs in environmental planning, compliance, sustainability, design and construction.

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