Hollywood Burbank Airport – serving more than six million passengers annually – is the only airport in the Los Angeles region with a direct rail connection, making it a vital multimodal gateway for Southern California. To further improve connectivity, reduce congestion, and support regional economic development, the Burbank‑Glendale‑Pasadena Airport Authority and the City of Burbank launched a comprehensive multimodal ground access planning study. STV oversaw management, planning and outreach efforts for one of the study’s major tracks, focused on developing transportation and land‑use strategies to strengthen access to the airport and surrounding communities.
What challenges did STV address?
The airport sits within a constrained urban environment surrounded by major freeways, rail lines, dense land uses and multiple jurisdictions. STV needed to evaluate transportation gaps, identify feasible multimodal improvements and consider how future development – both airport‑related and regional – would influence travel patterns. Balancing the needs of passengers, employees, nearby neighborhoods and regional commuters was central to the study’s success.
What solutions did STV deliver?
STV led a comprehensive transportation planning effort that evaluated local and regional access alternatives, analyzed land‑use options and packaged a multi‑year implementation program. The team developed strategies to improve intermodal connectivity, enhance wayfinding, strengthen pedestrian and transit access and support future development around the airport. STV also guided stakeholder outreach, working closely with the Airport Authority, the City of Burbank and community organizations to build consensus around improvements.
How does this project benefit the region?
The study provides a roadmap for expanding mobility options at one of California’s fastest-growing airports, supporting economic vitality and improving the passenger experience. Strengthening multimodal access reduces congestion, enhances first‑ and last‑mile connections and supports sustainable travel throughout the Burbank–Glendale–Pasadena region.
Key stats and accolades
- 6+ million annual passengers at Hollywood Burbank Airport
- Only Southern California airport with direct rail service
- Comprehensive multimodal access and land‑use evaluation
- Multi‑year implementation plan for future improvements
