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Parking Magazine: A Red Carpet Parking Experience at Los Angeles International Airport

Original Source:  "A Red Carpet Parking Experience at Los Angeles International Airport" by Michael Pendergrass for Parking Magazine

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As the first LAMP project to be finished, LAX Economy Parking Structure sets the tone for LAX’s landside transformation.

Mobility Hub Interaction

To relieve traffic and congestion at the world's third busiest airport, Los Angeles World Airports is embarking on $5.5 billion Landside Access Modernization Program (LAMP) that will provide a more reliable commute and offer a world class guest experience at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). As the first completed LAMP project, the 1.73 million square foot LAX Economy Parking Structure provides 4,300 stalls and serves as a mobility hub, setting the tone for a transformed passenger experience.

Once the Automated People Mover (APM), another major LAMP component, opens in 2023, passengers can be dropped and picked up, or can park and ride the APM directly to the Central Terminal Area (CTA). Until then, a complimentary shuttle will carry travelers to and from the CTA.

Full Service Amenities

The goal for LAX Economy Parking Structure was to elevate the guest experience. Features and amenities include escalators, a cantilevered walkway that runs the length of the structure parallel to the APM, expanded lightwells, stylized light fixtures and enhanced pedestrian paths where guests meander through landscaped planters.

A centralized meet-and-greet location and shuttle stop is located on the ground level. A dedicated bus lane provides quick access to and from the airport away from regular traffic. Valet parking will also be offered in the future. Adjacent to the meet-and-greet area are public restrooms, a water bottle refill station, vending machines and a pet relief area to provide more convenience for travelers. A new 26,000 square foot Security Badging Office will also provide a much greater convenience to more than 55,000 badged employees.

Premier Technology Enhancements

An online pre-booking system offers discounted rates for reserving in advance. Upon arrival, dynamic signage displays availability at each level. Red and green lights indicate open spaces so users can park quickly and efficiently. This technology will be rolled out to all LAX parking structures in the future.

In support of LAX's sustainable goals, 37% of parking spaces were designed with infrastructure for EV charging. Five hundred level 2 chargers will be phased in over the first year, and 8 DC fast charges will be available on level 3.

Facility Facts

  • Location: Los Angeles, California
  • Parking Spaces: 4,300
  • Levels: 4
  • Opened: 2021
  • Architect, Structural Engineer & Parking Planner: Watry Design, Inc.
  • Design Builder: Swinerton
  • Design Architect: Gensler


About the Author

Michael Pendergrass, AIA, a licensed architect in 9 states, has over 15 years of experience in delivering parking solutions and over 20 in the industry. He has worked on a wide variety of parking projects. In addition to delivering projects to satisfied clients, Michael’s projects, such as the San Diego International Airport Terminal 2 Parking Plaza, have received recognition from the International Parking & Mobility Institute and other organizations. 

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