Arup-Engineered Intermodal Transport Hub in Los Angeles: Boosting Public Transit and Sustainability

The Arup-engineered intermodal transport facility in Los Angeles has officially opened, connecting the airport with two metro lines and a bus station. The Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)/Metro Transit Center Station is a key component in the city's efforts to alleviate car traffic at LAX and encourage the use of public transit over taxis, rideshares, or private vehicles. Designed by international architecture practice Grimshaw, along with architect of record and landscape architect Gruen Associates, the transit hub is aimed at connecting the LA Metro's C and K rail lines. Arup undertook structural engineering, facades, fire safety, acoustics, and sustainability works for the project. The LAX/Metro Transit Center Station is considered a pivotal element of the Landside Access Modernization Program at LAX. The station, located at Aviation Boulevard and 96th Street, spans over 1,100 feet and features the widest light rail platform in the Metro system, offering secure and accessible connections to various destinations across LA County. The design prioritizes the integration of different transit options, with spacious above-grade concourses with natural light and ground-level bus bays set within a landscaped public plaza. The station's design embraces California's coastal climate, utilizing passive features such as shading, natural daylighting, and ventilation. Sustainability has been a key focus of the station, which incorporates solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, infrastructure for future electric vehicle (EV) bus charging, and is targeting Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Gold certification. The development also includes other public spaces designed to offer respite within the transit environment, with drought-tolerant native planting to increase biodiversity. According to Andrew Byrne, managing partner of Grimshaw's LA studio, "The Metro Transit Center Station transcends the typical function of a transit hub, emerging as a significant civic landmark and gateway to the city's transport network. A hub of multimodal activity, the station exemplifies the importance of thoughtful infrastructure to accelerate the necessary shift in our cities: fostering economic vitality and equity and improving the quality of life for residents and visitors alike as Los Angeles moves towards a more sustainable and connected future." Simon Rees, principal at Arup, said, "The LAX/Metro Transit Center Station will help relieve congestion and enable sustainable and equitable access to the airport without the need to drive into the central terminal area." The station is expected to significantly improve the travel experience for visitors of major upcoming cultural events, including the FIFA World Cup 2026, Super Bowl LXI, and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.