Team Members: Carrie Gammell, Jordan Rae, Andres Ramirez, and Jesslyn Whittell

Almost a city within itself, LAX is a place of contradictions that cannot be observed or experienced at once. The Lax Community thick map showcases some of the enormous disparities between the airport and its vicinity, as well as varying perspectives from residents, workers and travellers. 

As an urban mega project, LAX is the site of unparalleled capital investment. Among the billions of dollars that have been allocated to various upgrades, none exceeds the amount invested in the Tom Bradley International Terminal. Since its last renovation during the 1984 Olympics, TBIT has been a portal for international visitors and the backdrop for LA’s modern cultural identity. As the city prepares for the 2028 Olympics, once again TBIT is the site of enormous financial investment –some of which continues to expand the image of LA through arts and media. 

Taking into account the complex relationship with the surrounding neighborhoods, travelers, the public at large and those that call it home, LAX surely functions as a lax commons.