As the handover from Paris 2024 to Los Angeles 2028 approaches, the mayor of Los Angeles, Karen Bass, made a bold promise that caught the attention of many – LA28 would be a „no-car Games.“ This statement left many Angelenos scratching their heads, wondering how such a feat would be possible in a city known for its sprawling layout and notorious traffic congestion.
During the 2024 Games in Paris, public transportation played a crucial role in making the venues accessible to fans and participants. The modern and extensive Metro system, along with commuter rail lines, made it easy for people to travel to and from events. In contrast, Los Angeles lacks a robust public transportation system, with many residents heavily reliant on cars to get around.
The 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles will be spread across the entire metropolitan area, with venues located in various parts of the city and surrounding areas. From downtown LA to Long Beach to Temecula, the Games will require efficient transportation options to ensure that everyone can access the events.
Mayor Bass acknowledged the challenges that come with hosting a „no-car Games“ in a city like Los Angeles. She mentioned plans to borrow over 3,000 buses from around the country to create a comprehensive shuttle system for the Olympics. While buses can help reduce emissions and traffic, they may still face challenges navigating the city’s congested roads.
To address concerns about traffic during the Games, Bass proposed strategies such as remote work arrangements and staggered working hours for residents. She highlighted the advancements in technology that make remote work more feasible today than it was during the 1984 Olympics in LA.
Despite these plans, skepticism remains about the feasibility of a „no-car Games“ in Los Angeles. American sports venues have traditionally been designed without public transportation in mind, leading to a culture of driving to events. The success of Bass’s vision will depend on the willingness of Angelenos to embrace alternative transportation methods during the Olympics.
In the history of Olympic promises, many grand plans have fallen short of expectations. From human rights improvements in Beijing to affordable housing in London, past host cities have faced challenges in fulfilling their commitments. As Paris 2024 demonstrated, even the most ambitious plans can encounter obstacles along the way.
In conclusion, the idea of a „no-car Games“ in Los Angeles presents a significant challenge for organizers. While the promise of reducing traffic and emissions is commendable, the reality of navigating a city built around cars will require innovative solutions and the cooperation of residents. Only time will tell if LA28 can live up to the preposterous promise made by Mayor Bass.