(From the AP) Los Angeles officials have broken ground on a $1.5 billion construction project at Los Angeles International Airport. The ceremony on Monday begins of one of the largest public works project in the city’s history. The expansion of the Tom Bradley international terminal will include construction of nine gates, two concourses with larger passenger lounges, and expanded customs and immigration facilities.

Airport officials say the project is expected to employ about 4,000 construction workers. It is expected to be completed by 2013. The upgrades will bring much-needed improvements to the world’s sixth busiest airport, which received low marks in a recent survey of airline passengers.