As Los Angeles gears up to host the 2028 Olympics, Mayor Karen Bass has expressed both excitement and apprehension about the preparations required for the event. With the success of the 2024 Olympics in Paris setting a high standard, Mayor Bass highlighted the need for extensive planning in various aspects. One major focus for the city is improving public transportation to ensure smooth access to the Games venues. The idea of having “no cars to the venues” and encouraging the use of public transportation is a bold initiative that will require significant investment in bus and subway infrastructure. Collaboration with neighboring cities to borrow buses is also on the agenda, showcasing the scale of coordination necessary for such a large-scale event.
In addition to transportation, Mayor Bass emphasized the city’s commitment to addressing the issue of street homelessness in preparation for the Games. Plans are already in place to build more than 18,000 new housing units for the unhoused population, demonstrating a holistic approach to social challenges alongside the sporting event. Discussions with local companies to adjust work schedules and shift deliveries to reduce traffic congestion are also underway. The goal is to create a more organized and manageable traffic flow during the Games period, drawing on past experiences from the 1984 Olympics held in Los Angeles.
Unlike previous Olympics, the Los Angeles 2028 Games will not involve the construction of new permanent venues. Instead, the city aims to leverage its existing landmarks to create a unique Olympic experience. Challenges arise in showcasing these landmarks in a manner similar to Paris, which strategically featured famous locations like the Eiffel Tower during the 2024 Games. LA 2028 President Casey Wasserman raised the idea of altering the iconic Hollywood Sign for the event, citing the CGI modification done during the Olympic Torch handover ceremony. While acknowledging the complexity of such a change, Wasserman sees it as a remarkable opportunity to enhance the Games’ visual appeal.
Actress Jessica Alba, a board member of the Los Angeles 2028 organizing committee, emphasized the Games’ potential to showcase the diverse cultural facets of the city. From Hollywood to fashion to food, the Olympics offer a global platform for Los Angeles to shine and present itself as a vibrant and multifaceted destination. Alba described LA as a “main character” in the Olympic narrative, highlighting the city’s desire to be at the forefront of the event and display its rich cultural tapestry to a global audience.
The road to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics is paved with both challenges and opportunities for the city. As stakeholders work tirelessly to prepare for the event, focusing on transportation, homelessness, landmark utilization, and cultural representation will be crucial in ensuring a successful and memorable Games. With careful planning and innovative solutions, Los Angeles has the potential to host an Olympics that not only meets but exceeds the high expectations set by previous host cities.
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