Photo by Paul Turang Photography

Underground infrastructure was also overhauled, with new electrical, communications, water, sewer, storm drainage and fire protection systems. The team discovered that a live 8-in. fire water main was running through 21 planned caisson locations for the new terminal expansion. This existing line provided fire protection to half the terminal and was not shown in early design documents. The contractor developed a phased mitigation plan that involved constructing a new riser manifold, performing two cut-and-cap operations and rerouting several 4-in. sprinkler mains, including one directly above an active baggage claim. All work on the fire water main went through sequencing with the Los Angeles Dept. of Building and Safety, the fire marshal, Los Angeles World Airports and Alaska Airlines to ensure uninterrupted fire protection.

Two new structural steel and concrete building additions expanded the facility’s total footprint to more than 96,000 sq ft. Phased delivery, temporary barricades and precise coordination with LAWA and Alaska Airlines ensured uninterrupted operations throughout.

Terminal 6 also has the first half-bay moment frame ever approved by the city of Los Angeles, allowing demolition and structural upgrades within an occupied terminal and without compromising structural integrity.