How will Los Angeles Achieve a No-Car Olympics in 2028?

The bustling metropolis of Los Angeles is gearing up for a historic moment as it prepares to host the 2028 Summer Olympics. With the Olympic flag set to be handed over from Paris to Los Angeles, Mayor Karen Bass has made a bold declaration: the 2028 Games will be a “no-car Games.” This ambitious plan aims to tackle the city’s notorious traffic congestion and promote a greener, more sustainable Los Angeles.

Public Transportation: The Backbone of the No-Car Games

Mayor Bass and Casey Wasserman, chairman of the LA 2028 organizing committee, have outlined a comprehensive strategy to ensure that the Olympic venues will only be accessible by public transportation. This plan involves the deployment of over 3,000 buses, which will be borrowed from various parts of the country. Additionally, Bass is advocating for businesses to allow their employees to work remotely during the 17-day Olympic period to further reduce the number of cars on the roads.

“We’re already working to create jobs by expanding our public transportation system in order for us to have a no-car Games,” Bass stated. “And that’s a feat for Los Angeles, as we’ve always been in love with our cars. We’re working to ensure that we can build a greener Los Angeles.”

The city has a significant task ahead, as its current public transit infrastructure, which includes bus and light rail systems, pales in comparison to cities like Paris, London, and New York. Los Angeles has only two subway lines, making the challenge even more daunting. However, the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, where remote work became the norm, provide a blueprint for reducing traffic during the Games.

Addressing Homelessness: A Key Priority

One of the critical issues that Los Angeles must address before the 2028 Olympics is homelessness. According to the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, there were 75,312 unhoused people in the county and 45,252 in the city of LA in 2024. These numbers must be significantly reduced to present a polished image on the global stage.

Paris organizers relocated thousands of unhoused people ahead of the 2024 Games, and Los Angeles plans to follow a similar approach. “We are going to get Angelenos housed,” Bass vowed. “That is what we have been doing, and we’re going to continue to do that. We will get people housed. We will get them off the street. We will get them into temporary housing, address the reason why they were unhoused, and get them into permanent housing.”

Ensuring Safety and Security

Safety and security are paramount for any global event, and the 2028 Olympics are no exception. Wasserman emphasized that the organizers are already collaborating with the federal government to develop robust security plans. “Our mantra is we need to be the safest place, but we need to be the greatest experience as well, and we’re not going to sacrifice one for the other,” he said.

The operating budget for the Games stands at $6.8 billion, excluding security costs, which will be taxpayer-funded. Los Angeles, with its experience hosting numerous large-scale global events, is well-equipped to handle the security challenges that come with the Olympics.

Political Landscape and Its Impact

The upcoming U.S. presidential election in November is expected to have some impact on the Games, but both Bass and Wasserman remain optimistic. Wasserman highlighted the bipartisan support for Los Angeles’ Olympic bid, noting that three different sitting presidents have backed the city’s efforts since 2017.

“I just want to remind people, this is about the red, white, and blue,” Wasserman said. “This is not about the red and blue. We all march behind the same flag, the same name, the same anthem, and this is something that’s going to bring our country together.”

Our Advice on the City

For those planning to visit Los Angeles during the 2028 Olympics, embracing the city’s public transportation system will be essential. Consider staying in accommodations that are conveniently located near bus or light rail lines to ensure easy access to the Olympic venues. Additionally, exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods and cultural attractions via public transit can provide a unique and enriching experience.

For seasoned travelers, leveraging technology to navigate the city’s transit system will be crucial. Apps that provide real-time updates on bus and train schedules can help you plan your journey efficiently. Moreover, consider renting bicycles or using ride-sharing services for short distances to complement your public transit experience.

In conclusion, the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics promise to be a transformative event for the city, pushing it towards a more sustainable and inclusive future. As travelers, embracing these changes and adapting to the new norms will not only enhance your Olympic experience but also contribute to the city’s long-term vision of a greener, more connected Los Angeles.