LAX Taxiway C
- Location
- Los Angeles, CA
- Owner
- Los Angeles World Airports of the City of Los Angeles
- Contractor
- Kiewit Pacific Co.
- Value
- $40 million
- Completion
- March 2002
One of the busiest taxiways at the world's fifth largest airport received a $40 million upgrade in March 2002, constructed by Kiewit Pacific Co., a subsidiary of Kiewit Corporation, to increase airfield efficiency. The scope of work involved realigning Taxiway C; lengthening Sepulveda Boulevard; modifying the tunnel's lighting and ventilation systems; and rehabilitating an existing fire station and Delta Airlines maintenance facility.
Working around live utilities was the most significant challenge. Several airport utilities on the property were not on record, including telecommunications, water and sewer lines that ran through the project area. In addition, the main fiber optic cable feeding the southern control tower, powering communications and lighting equipment for the south side of the airport, ran through the construction site as well. Crews were careful not to disturb a 14-in.-dia. fuel line that carries five million gallons of jet fuel daily.
Working within 500 ft. of departing aircraft, Kiewit personnel and nearly 40 subcontractors successfully completed the project. In addition to managing subcontractors, the team was responsible for coordinating seven city agencies and private organizations throughout construction.