LAX, once labeled as one of America’s worst airports, entered the first phase of a $4.1 billion development project for the LAX Capital Improvement Program.

Phase one is the new Tom Bradley International Terminal, a $1.9 billion project that created nearly 4,000 construction jobs and 2,000 others during the 5-year schedule. The project fits Mayor Eric Garcetti’s agenda to create more local jobs, and approximately $2.62 billion were given in wages during the duration of the project.

Other speakers included former Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, City Councilman Herb Wesson and City Councilman Mike Bonin. 

The architect, Curtis Fentress, gushed about his vision for the terminal. Fentress designed South Korea's Incheon International Airport, which was rated best airport worldwide for seven years.

“Welcome to the gateway to America, and the gateway to the world," Fentress said.

Reach Staff Reporter Aeri Koo here.