LA City Council Approves Extra Funding for LAX People Mover

The automated electric rail system is expected to carry up to 30 million passengers per year to points in and around the Los Angeles International Airport.

1 minute read

August 20, 2024, 11:00 AM PDT

By Diana Ionescu @aworkoffiction


Rendering of automated people mover on elevated track at Los Angeles International Airport at nighttime with iconic light columns.

The proposed Automated People Mover would operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week between six stations around the Los Angeles International Airport. | Los Angeles World Airports / Automated People Mover

An Automated People Mover planned for the Los Angeles International Airport could begin operation in January 2026 after the city council approved an increase to funding for the project.

According to an article in Westside Current, “Council members voted 12-0 to allocate an additional $400 million for the project -- a recommendation forwarded by the council's Trade, Travel and Tourism Committee and the Los Angeles Board of Airport Commission.” The funds will go toward addressing claims filed by the People Mover’s contractor.

The People Mover is an electric train system that would run along 2.25 miles of elevated rail to six stations around the airport and the surrounding area, including transit and parking facilities, 24 hours a day. “The airport broke ground on the Automated People Mover in March 2019. It's estimated that it will eventually carry some 30 million passengers a year, resulting in 117,000 fewer vehicle miles traveled per day, according to LAWA's website.”

Monday, August 19, 2024 in Westside Current

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

High-rise apartment buildings in Waikiki, Hawaii with steep green mountains in background.

Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss

The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.

April 6, 2025 - Honolulu Civil Beat

Two yellow and white Dallas Area Rapid Transit light rail streetcars at station in Dallas, Texas.

North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region

At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.

April 3, 2025 - KERA News

Blue and white Seattle Link light rail train exiting concrete Downtown Bellevue Tunnel in Bellevue, WA.

Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?

Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.

April 7, 2025 - Todd Litman

Amtrak Acela

How to Make US Trains Faster

Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.

2 hours ago - Bloomberg CityLab

Mural showing tools and craft supplies with banner reading 'Things are made here' in front of makerspace in Columbia, Missouri.

Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs

A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.

3 hours ago - Next City

Close-up of wood log with emerald ash borer larvae tracks etched in the wood.

Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests

The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.

4 hours ago - The Bemidji Pioneer