Kate Kuykendall
562.570.2679
Kate.Kuykendall@longbeach.gov
Public Affairs Officer, Long Beach Airport

Jocelin Padilla-Razo
562.570.4668
LBPWMedia@longbeach.gov
Community Information Officer, Department of Public Works

Long Beach, CA – On Wednesday, May 21, Long Beach Airport (LGB) and the City’s Public Works Department were recognized for their contributions to protecting local architecture and history at the 37th Annual Long Beach Heritage Preservation Awards.

“We are proud to see both the Airport and Public Works departments recognized for their hard work and dedication to preserving our rich history in Long Beach,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “These efforts ensure that future generations can connect and learn from the stories that shape the community.”

Long Beach Airport received a Rehabilitation Award for the restoration of its iconic Historic Terminal, which reopened in 2024 following a comprehensive yearlong renovation. The project focused on preserving the building’s distinctive architectural features and original Works Progress Administration (WPA) artwork, including a masterwork mosaic by artist Grace Clements composed of more than a million hand-cut tiles. The project also included vital seismic retrofitting to protect the structure for future generations. Local historic preservation consultant John Thomas advised on the project.

Originally designed by architects William Horace Austin and Kenneth Smith Wing in Streamline Moderne-style, the Historic Terminal was considered avant-garde for its time. Its grand opening, planned for December 8, 1941, was delayed by the attack on Pearl Harbor the previous day. The building officially opened on April 25, 1942, and has since become a designated Historic Landmark, treasured for its rare blend of history, artistry and enduring civic significance. 

“Long Beach Airport’s charm comes from its rich history and unique sense of place,” said Airport Director Cynthia Guidry. “This award celebrates the care we’ve taken to preserve that history while creating a modern, memorable experience for every traveler who walks through our doors.”

The Public Works Department received a Preservation Award for the department’s efforts in restoring the public mural, “Typical Activities of the Beach and Harbor City,” also known as “Recreation in Long Beach” at Harvey Milk Promenade Park. The glazed tile mosaic, which was completed as a WPA project in 1938, measures 38 feet high and 22 feet wide and was pieced together by more than 60 different artists. During summer 2024, the artwork underwent repairs to protect and preserve its rich tapestry of color and historic significance.

“This mural is a vibrant reflection of Long Beach’s culture and history,” said Public Works Director Eric Lopez. “We’re proud to be recognized for our efforts to preserve this important piece of our community’s heritage.”

The nonprofit Long Beach Heritage's Annual Preservation Awards highlight efforts that honor and preserve Long Beach's rich cultural and architectural history. The 2025 awards were presented on May 21 at the Historic Bembridge House in Long Beach.

“For over 35 years, Long Beach Heritage has been honored to present its annual Preservation Awards,” said Long Beach Heritage Executive Director Christopher Hogan. “These awards recognize and celebrate individuals, property owners, neighborhood groups, organizations and governmental agencies who have worked hard for countless hours and in countless ways to make significant positive impacts in historic and cultural preservation through projects and initiatives in Long Beach.”

To learn more about Long Beach Heritage and the Preservation Awards, visit lbheritage.org.

For more information about Long Beach Airport, visit lgb.org. For more information about the Public Works Department, visit longbeach.gov/pw.

About the City of Long Beach 
Long Beach is nestled along the Southern California coast and home to approximately 466,000 people. As an award-winning full-service charter city, Long Beach offers the amenities of a metropolitan city while maintaining a strong sense of individual and diverse neighborhoods, culture and community. With a bustling downtown and over six miles of scenic beaches, Long Beach is a renowned tourist and business destination and home to the iconic Queen Mary, nationally recognized Aquarium of the Pacific and Long Beach Airport, award-winning Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center and world-class Port of Long Beach.

For more information about the City of Long Beach, visit longbeach.gov/. Follow us on social to keep up with the latest news: Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. More information about Long Beach Airport is available at lgb.org and on Facebook, Instagram and X @LGBAirport. For more information about the Department of Public Works visit longbeach.gov/pw and follow @lbpublicworks on Facebook, X and Instagram.