Exciting Unveiling: LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games Venue Plan Promises Innovation and Sustainability
- The use of existing venues like the Crypto.com Arena is projected to save approximately $150 million in combined new revenue and cost savings.
- SoFi Stadium will be transformed into the largest swimming venue in Olympic history, with a seating capacity of 38,000.
- Marine Stadium in Long Beach will feature a 1,500-meter course, the shortest in Olympic history, for rowing events.
As excitement builds for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics, the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games committee has shifted focus to the future, revealing a comprehensive and innovative venue plan for the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles. This strategic plan, announced in June 2024, underscores the city’s commitment to leveraging existing world-class facilities, thus ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability.
Utilizing Iconic Venues
The LA28 Games will prominently feature several iconic venues across Los Angeles, including the Crypto.com Arena, formerly known as the Staples Center, which will host gymnastics events. This arena, opened in 1999, is home to the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers and the NHL’s Kings, among others. The decision to use existing venues like this one is projected to save approximately $150 million in combined new revenue and cost savings.
Inglewood’s SoFi Stadium, the current home of the NFL’s Rams and Chargers, will be transformed into the largest swimming venue in Olympic history, with a seating capacity of 38,000. The Opening Ceremony will also be held here, marking a significant departure from traditional formats by commencing with track and field events before transitioning to swimming.
The future home of the NBA’s Los Angeles Clippers, the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, set to open in August 2024, will serve as the backdrop for Olympic basketball showdowns. Meanwhile, the historic L.A. Memorial Coliseum, which hosted track and field events in the 1932 and 1984 Olympics, will reprise its role for the third time in 2028.
Expanding Beyond Los Angeles
The LA28 Games will also extend beyond the city limits, incorporating venues in Carson and Long Beach. Carson’s Dignity Health Sports Park, home to the LA Galaxy, will host rugby sevens, hockey, and tennis events. The adjacent Velodrome, the largest in the United States, will be the site for track cycling.
Long Beach will play a significant role, hosting eight Olympic events, including canoe sprint and rowing at Marine Stadium, handball at Long Beach Arena, and marathon swimming and triathlon along the waterfront. The Long Beach Convention Center parking lot will be transformed into a temporary aquatics center for water polo and artistic swimming.
Innovative and Historic Decisions
One of the most notable decisions for the LA28 Games is the relocation of rowing events to Marine Stadium in Long Beach. This venue, which hosted rowing in the 1932 Olympics, will feature a shortened 1,500-meter course, the shortest in Olympic history. This decision was made to avoid the complexities and costs associated with using Lake Perris, a reservoir located three hours from the Olympic Village.
The inclusion of Beach Sprint Rowing, a format of Coastal Rowing, in the Olympic program for the first time, highlights the innovative spirit of the LA28 Games. The venue for this new discipline has yet to be announced.
Our Advice on the City
Los Angeles, with its rich history and vibrant culture, offers a plethora of experiences for visitors. For those attending the LA28 Games, we recommend exploring the diverse neighborhoods and iconic landmarks that make this city unique. From the bustling streets of Downtown LA to the serene beaches of Santa Monica, there is something for everyone.
For occasional travelers, a visit to the Griffith Observatory provides breathtaking views of the city and the Hollywood Sign. It’s a perfect spot to reflect on the grandeur of the Olympic Games and the city’s role in hosting such a monumental event.
For expert travelers, consider exploring the lesser-known gems of Los Angeles, such as the historic Olvera Street, the birthplace of LA, or the vibrant arts district in Downtown LA. These areas offer a deeper understanding of the city’s cultural and historical significance.
In conclusion, the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games promise to be a spectacular event, showcasing the best of Los Angeles’ existing venues while introducing innovative new elements. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or a casual visitor, the 2028 Games will offer an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.