LAX Pylons Being Removed in Preparation for 2028 Olympic Improvements
Demolition of Pedestrian Bridge at LAX Underway
LOS ANGELES – The dismantling of a pedestrian bridge outside Terminal 5 at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) commenced this week, leading to overnight lane closures that will continue through Sunday. This demolition is part of a larger effort to enhance the airport’s infrastructure.
As part of the Airfield and Terminal Modernization Program, crews have also removed the iconic ring of 15 illuminated pylons that have graced LAX’s entrance since 2000. The pylons, which varied in height from 25 to 100 feet, were taken down to facilitate road improvements aimed at reducing congestion and separating airport traffic from local streets by 2030.
Michael Christensen, Chief Airport Development Officer for Los Angeles World Airports, commented on the significance of the pylons throughout the years. “Since their installation in 2000, the iconic LAX pylons have stood as a vibrant symbol of LAX and Los Angeles, welcoming more than 1.2 billion visitors from around the world,” he said. “As part of the roadway modernization project, we have a unique opportunity to reimagine their design during this exciting new chapter in LAX’s transformation.”
Timeline for Changes
- Early January 2026: Removal of the remaining pylons is set to begin.
- Pre-2028: Completion of new elevated ingress roadways is anticipated before the Olympic Games.
- 2030: Full completion of egress roadways and the modernized roadway system is expected.
This initiative is part of a broader, multi-billion-dollar transformation of LAX. Airport officials aim to improve safety and accessibility for the millions expected to visit for the 2028 Olympic Games and beyond. While the original pylons are being dismantled, officials see this as an opportunity to modernize the airport’s visual gateway, aligning it with upcoming terminal and transportation upgrades.
