Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is gearing up to receive the Olympic flag ahead of the 2028 Summer Games, and one burning question on everyone’s mind is how the city plans to tackle its notorious gridlocked traffic. In a surprising move, Bass announced that the city is aiming for a „no-car Games,“ emphasizing the need to rely on public transportation to access the venues. This bold plan includes borrowing 3,000 buses from across the country and encouraging businesses to allow employees to work from home during the 17-day event.
This won’t be the first time Los Angeles hosts the Olympics, as the city previously held the Games in 1932 and 1984. Bass recalled the unnecessary panic over traffic congestion before the 1984 Games and highlighted the advancements in technology and remote work capabilities that can now be leveraged to alleviate traffic concerns. Drawing inspiration from former Mayor Tom Bradley’s strategy of staggering work hours to reduce traffic, Bass aims to take it a step further by allowing nonessential workers to work remotely during the Games.
While Paris has been praised for its accessible public transportation system during the Games, Los Angeles faces challenges due to its limited subway lines and expansive urban sprawl. Bass acknowledged the need for collaboration with local businesses to implement remote work policies and alleviate traffic congestion. Despite not yet securing commitments from employers, Bass remains optimistic that the recent shift towards remote work due to the COVID-19 pandemic will make it easier to implement such measures.
In addition to addressing traffic concerns, Bass is also focused on tackling the city’s homelessness crisis. With over 75,000 unhoused individuals in the county, efforts are underway to provide temporary and permanent housing solutions to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for the Games. Collaboration between the government and private sector is key to achieving this goal and showcasing a positive image of the city on a global stage.
Ensuring the safety and security of participants and spectators is another top priority for LA organizers. Working closely with federal agencies, plans are in place to maintain a safe environment without compromising the overall experience of the Games. With an operating budget of $6.8 billion, security measures will be taxpayer-funded to guarantee a secure and successful event.
Despite the upcoming presidential election and potential political implications, LA organizers remain confident in the unity and support for the Games. Emphasizing the patriotic spirit of the Olympics, Chairman Casey Wasserman highlighted the bipartisan nature of the event, emphasizing that it is a unifying force for the country.
As Los Angeles prepares to host the 2028 Summer Games, Mayor Karen Bass and the organizing committee are committed to overcoming challenges, from traffic congestion to homelessness, to ensure a successful and memorable event for athletes, spectators, and the city as a whole. With careful planning, innovative solutions, and community collaboration, Los Angeles is poised to deliver a world-class Olympic experience in 2028.