TITLE
Recommendation to receive and file a report by the Long Beach Airport regarding the status of the Phase I Terminal Improvements. (District 5)
DISCUSSION
On February 18, 2003, the City Council authorized the completion of an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Airport Terminal Improvement Project (Project). From February 2003 through June 2006, the City conducted the EIR process, culminating in City Council certification of the EIR on June 20, 2006. On April 24, 2007, the City Council approved a maximum area of 89,995 square feet for the terminal portion of the Project and authorized the preparation of final plans and specifications, cost estimates and a financing plan for construction of the Project. A concerted effort commenced on the parking structure component of the Project, which led to City Council approval for construction modifications and financing in November 2009. This was followed by groundbreaking ceremonies for the parking structure improvements in December 2009.
In April 2009, as the parking structure neared its final approval stages, Airport staff turned its attention to the terminal component of the Project. Due to factors affecting the nation's economy and, in particular, the aviation industry, Airport staff identified a "phased" approach to construction and financing of the terminal improvements. This approach insured that the Airport was meeting the needs of its customers while maintaining financial viability into the future.
Focusing on customer service, staff identified three immediate priorities for construction:
permanent structures to serve as passenger hold rooms, a consolidated passenger screening checkpoint and enhanced concession areas. These priorities served as the benchmark for the design of the Phase I Terminal Improvements. On April 12, 2010, the Long Beach Cultural Heritage Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for the Phase I Terminal Improvements. On April 15, 2010, the Long Beach Planning Commi...
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