As the excitement from the successful 2024 Olympics and Paralympics in Paris lingers, all eyes are now on Los Angeles as they prepare to host the next summer Games in 2028. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed her anxiety about the extensive preparations needed for the event but remains confident that the city will rise to the occasion. Drawing inspiration from the 1984 Olympics hosted by Los Angeles, Bass emphasized the city’s commitment to not only improve its infrastructure to host the Games but also to ensure lasting benefits post-event.
One of the key areas of focus for the Los Angeles 2028 Games is public transportation. Mayor Bass articulated her vision of reducing private vehicle usage for attending the events and instead encouraging spectators to utilize public transportation options. This ambitious goal will necessitate significant investments in bus and subway infrastructure, as well as fostering collaboration with neighboring cities to facilitate the borrowing of buses. Moreover, plans are in place to tackle street homelessness by constructing over 18,000 new housing units for the unhoused population.
In a bid to alleviate traffic congestion during the Games, discussions are underway with Los Angeles-based companies to adjust employee work schedules to incorporate remote working options during peak traffic hours. Additionally, strategies are being devised to shift truck deliveries to nighttime to minimize daytime traffic disruptions. By organizing the region effectively, Mayor Bass believes that traffic congestion can be reduced and managed successfully throughout the duration of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
Unlike previous Olympics, the Los Angeles 2028 Games will not witness the construction of new permanent venues. While this presents a unique advantage, as it promotes sustainability and cost-effectiveness, there are challenges in effectively utilizing the city’s existing landmarks in a manner similar to Paris. LA 2028 President Casey Wasserman acknowledged the need to leverage iconic locations like the Hollywood Sign for the Games, citing the example of the Olympic Torch handover ceremony where the sign was digitally altered to feature the Olympic Rings. Wasserman sees this as a remarkable opportunity for the Games but acknowledges the complexities involved in such modifications.
Actress Jessica Alba, a member of the Los Angeles 2028 board of directors, emphasized the Games’ potential to spotlight the diverse cultural facets of the city. From Hollywood glamour to fashion trends and culinary delights, Alba envisions the Olympics serving as a global stage for showcasing Los Angeles’s vibrant spirit. Describing LA as a “main character” in this Olympic narrative, Alba exudes confidence in the city’s ability to shine on the world stage during the Games.
The Los Angeles 2028 Olympics hold immense promise and excitement, with stakeholders like Mayor Karen Bass, President Casey Wasserman, and actress Jessica Alba steering the city towards a successful and memorable event. With a focus on sustainable infrastructure, transportation enhancements, and cultural showcases, the stage is set for Los Angeles to deliver an Olympics that will captivate global audiences and leave a lasting legacy for years to come.