Los Angeles International Airport repaving project could cause travel delays

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The upper-level departure deck at the Los Angeles International Airport is getting repaved, and the project could cause delays for travelers.

The area has not been repaved for over 30 years - and it shows. The roadway is riddled with cracks. The new material will be texturized and grooved to make the drive smooth.

But in order for the new to replace the old, the traffic will have to take a hit first.

LAX has traffic troubles on a good day. Now add to the mix major repair work to repave the upper-level departure deck, which got underway on Monday, travelers will definitely need to pack their patience.

Several lanes will be closed overnight Monday through Thursday from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Officials hope to complete the work by Thanksgiving.

Drivers and travelers are bracing themselves for the expected headache, but the proverbial parking lot will lead to promise, according to officials. The repaving is part of a $32.4 million airport facelift to be completed by 2016.

Many believe the improvements are long overdue.