“Managing the Long Beach Airport and being a part of the Long Beach team has been an incredible experience, one that I will forever treasure.” Rodriguez said. “I can’t say enough about the professionalism of the airport staff, the wonderful partnerships with the airport stakeholders and the amazing Long Beach community who embraced me and helped create the success we enjoy at the airport. I am looking forward to this next challenge in my career and wish Long Beach the very best.”
Rodriguez was named Long Beach Airport Director in February 2009 and had earlier served for 20 years in both the public and private sectors, including deputy director at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport and in positions at the Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beach International airports.
According to a press release issued by the City of Long Beach, during Rodriguez’s tenure, the Long Beach Airport has experienced a renaissance, completing the $57-million parking garage and the $45-million modernization of the historical Long Beach Terminal. The parking garage was completed four months ahead of schedule and $2 million under budget, and the entire Airport Modernization project has been embraced by the community, the industry and passengers as a resounding success, according to the City’s press release. The Airport has won numerous awards, including recently being listed by Fodor’s Travel Guide as one of the top 10 airports in the world. The Airport has consistently been listed as one of the lowest-cost airports to fly into and is in a strong financial position, according to the City.
“Mario has been such an asset to Long Beach, and I can’t say enough about his expertise, his professionalism, and what he and his team have accomplished over the past five years working hand in hand with the mayor and City Council, the community, and our city departments.” said City Manager Patrick West. “We wish him all the best as he explores new professional challenges and brings a little part of Long Beach’s success with him to another community.”
Rodriguez’s last day with the City of Long Beach will be May 23, 2014. The City indicated Monday that it will conduct a nationwide search for his successor, considering both internal and external candidates who choose to apply.
Upon Rodriguez’s departure, the city manager will appoint an interim director to lead the airport until the selection process is complete.
Source: City of LB
