A proposal to move the northernmost runway at Los Angeles International Airport closer to homes will be shelved indefinitely under an agreement announced Wednesday, ending a key lawsuit challenging the planned modernization of LAX. The settlement, which will go before the City Council for approval next week, would halt a $652-million project to relocate the runway 260 feet closer to the communities of Westchester and Playa del Rey. For years, the runway project has been a major issue in residential neighborhoods because of the potential for increased noise and air pollution. Supporters, including the Federal Aviation Administration and the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, contended the project would increase the safety and efficiency of moving aircraft — especially the largest airliners — around LAX. “The airport and the surrounding neighborhood have been at war for decades,” said Councilman Mike Bonin, whose district includes LAX.

Source: Los Angeles Times August 18, 2016 02:16 UTC