An iconic symbol of the city and Los Angeles International Airport was being dismantled this week, with road construction prompting the removal of the oft-photographed ring of 15 illuminated pylons at the airport’s entrance.
The ring of 15 pylons is part of a total of 26 that span 1.5 miles along Century Boulevard, each ranging from 25-100 feet in height. Removal of the pylons began early January, though some of the pylons were previously removed for the Automated People Mover project.
Los Angeles World Airports had the remaining 15 pylons removed to make way for the Airfield and Terminal Modernization Program Roadway Improvements Project, which will reconfigure 4.4 miles of roads to separate airport-bound from neighborhood traffic, reduce congestion and improve vehicle and pedestrian access, officials said.
LAWA officials say elevated ingress and egress roadway systems will provide streamlined routes and make it safer for airport travelers.
The agency anticipates the completion of ingress roadways before the 2028 Olympic Games, with full completion of egress roadways by 2030.
“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,” Michael Christensen, chief airport development officer for LAWA, said in a statement.
“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 as our teams diligently prepare for the construction of elevated roadway that will ease congestion, enhance safety and deliver a world-class experience for travelers and our community,” Christensen added.