Congressman Robert Garcia Announces Over $24 Million for Improvements at Long Beach Airport

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Robert Garcia (CA-42), senior member of the House Aviation Subcommittee, announced the Department of Transportation has awarded over $24 million in federal funding for Long Beach Airport, which was requested to help upgrade the airport to improve operations and better serve travelers. This award from the Federal Aviation Administration will expand key parts of the terminal and improve areas to make it easier and more comfortable for passengers to get through the airport.

 “As the former Mayor of Long Beach, I know firsthand how important our airport is to our community and our local economy,” said Congressman Garcia. “This funding not only upgrades our airport to make it more sustainable and efficient, but it will also create a safer, smoother experience for anyone flying through Long Beach Airport, which has already been recognized as the second-best airport in the country. I’m looking forward to seeing the impact these improvements will have on travelers, local businesses, and the growth of our community, especially as we prepare for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.”

“America’s coolest airport is about to get even cooler. This will add modern amenities, enhance the indoor/outdoor passenger experience, and create nearly 200 local construction jobs. This $24.3 million federal investment in Long Beach Airport is a win for travelers, our workforce, and our community,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “By investing in sustainable, state-of-the-art infrastructure, we’re preparing LGB for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, strengthening our economy, and keeping taxpayer dollars local—while welcoming residents and visitors in style.”

The project is expected to take place between early 2026 and 2027, with all gates remaining open throughout construction to ensure minimal disruption to flight operations. The project is funded primarily through federal dollars and Long Beach Airport revenue, and construction is expected to generate approximately 190 local jobs, boosting Long Beach’s workforce and economy.

Congressman Garcia has always fought to improve our community’s transportation infrastructure. In 2024, Congressman Garcia led the Los Angeles County delegation to advocate for funding for Metro’s Southeast Gateway Line Project. Congressman Garcia also helped secure over $283 million in federal grant money for the completion of the North Rail Yard Expansion and the South Rail Yard Expansion at the Port of Long Beach, which is estimated to create over 13,000 jobs nationwide. Congressman Garcia led efforts to secure funding for Los Angeles and Long Beach transit systems in preparation for the 2028 Olympics. As Mayor of the City of Long Beach, his signature ballot initiative, Measure A, launched the largest infrastructure repair program in a generation, promoting good-paying union jobs. 

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