Despite Downturn in Traffic, Los Angeles Plans $1.3 Billion Airport Overhaul

Although many people have shied away from traveling due to the recession, the city of Los Angeles plans to spend 1.3 billion dollars in renovations to the Los Angeles Internation Airport. These renovations will include, an expansion on the international terminal, new shops, more passenger lounges, and an increase in the amount of gates. Gina Marie Lindsey justifies this renovation because she believes that places like airports are "the front door to America." Therefore, the major airport must be aesthetically pleasing to tourists. This renovation poses many problems in that, 1.3 billion dollars are being spent where it is not necessary during this economic downturn.

However, officials believe that since the other major aiports such as, Atlanta and Dallas have undergone these expensive renovations LAX certainly deserves their renovation. Also, officials are saying this new rennovation will improve the customs in LAX such that, there will be a larger area for immigration and customs. This new renovation is also said he help the imports and export into California because there will now be more space for airbusses to land and take off with the excessive amount of cargo. However, is this really necessary? Will it significantly help the poor economy in Califorinia? Having reached an unemployment rate of 12.2% as of August, according to the bureau of labor statistics, is this the last resort to help California's faltering economy and unemployment rate?



http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/20/us/20lax.html?_r=1&ref=us