Granite’s LAX Project Wins Build America Award
Granite has been recognized with a Baldwin Group Build America Award from the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) for the North Airfield Exit Taxiways (NAET) and Runway Rehabilitations Project at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), winning in the Highway and Transportation Renovation ($100 million or more) category.
The $158.9 million project constructed four new high-speed exit taxiways and modernized two runways while aircraft continued operating nearby. The project excelled in sustainability, safety, innovation, and collaboration— an exceptional achievement on one of the busiest airfields in the world.
Project Successes:
• Completed early and under budget
• Zero lost-time injuries
• No claims or disputes
• Recycled 98,000 tons of pavement
The Build America Award recognizes Granite’s disciplined execution and collaborative approach on a project where schedule deviations could have impacted global aviation. Facing consecutive long-term runway closures and significant operational risk, the team planned each phase to the minute, rehearsed transitions, and worked closely with Los Angeles World Airports and project stakeholders. This approach enabled Granite to reopen the first runway 10 days ahead of schedule and complete the project five days early overall.
Innovation and sustainability were also integral to success. Granite’s on‑site batch plant produced more than 67,000 cubic yards of FAA P‑501 concrete, achieving 100 percent Pay Within Limits, the FAA’s highest quality rating. Recycling existing pavement eliminated approximately 15,000 truck trips, significantly cutting down emissions.
Supported by an empowered workforce and a strong safety culture, The NAET team completed more than 289,000 labor hours on the live airfield without a single lost-time injury or recordable incident.
The NAET Project demonstrated how precision planning, innovation, and partnership can deliver critical infrastructure safely and sustainably. The result is a safer, more efficient airfield, and a project that exemplifies the standards of excellence honored by the Build America Awards.
