The $17.8m project, part of the $125m Phase II – Terminal Area Improvements Program, included a seismic retrofit and meticulous restoration of the building’s classic 1941 design elements.
“Long Beach Airport’s Historic Terminal is one of the City's most beloved architectural treasures, and I’m proud of the careful work that has been done to preserve its history and make improvements that will ensure it’s enjoyed for generations to come,” said Mayor Rex Richardson.
The Historic Terminal building, designed by renowned architects William Horace Austin and Kenneth Smith Wing, was originally scheduled to open on December 8, 1941. The attack on Pearl Harbor the day before delayed those plans and the airport eventually formally opened on April 25, 1942. Now, as Long Beach Airport celebrates its 100th anniversary, the reopening of the historic landmark has enabled the Southern Californian community to celebrate in a way that was not possible in wartime.
LGB held a public open house of the Streamline Moderne-style building on Saturday, July 27. Attendees were among the first to see the Historic Terminal’s return to its former glory while enjoying history tours, music, children's activities, giveaways and light refreshments.
“The elegance of the Historic Terminal's architecture and its mosaic masterpiece have stood the test of time,” said Fifth District Councilwoman Megan Kerr. “Our airport is an important piece of the City’s economic, historic and cultural contribution to the region.”
Highlights of the project include: seismic retrofits; the restoration of the iconic west entrance, which has been closed for decades; new west bay windows; preservation of the building’s iconic wall clock and original signage; the uncovering of the full mosaic masterwork by artist Grace Clements; updated restrooms; modernised administrative offices; the conversion of the former ticketing area into space for rental car services; and other improvements.
“As we celebrate a century of service, the renovation of our Historic Terminal is a testament to our commitment to preserving our rich aviation history while also maintaining modern, first-class standards,” said airport director Cynthia Guidry. “The Historic Terminal is the crown jewel of the Long Beach Airport campus, and I’m so excited to see travellers explore this beautifully restored space.”
Situated at a central position between Los Angeles and Orange counties, Long Beach Airport is the oldest municipal airport in California.
