LA 2028 Olympics: Mayor Karen Bass plans for a “no-car games”

As Los Angeles prepares to host the 2028 Olympics, Mayor Karen Bass has announced an ambitious plan to make the event a "no-car Games."

The city will host the Games for the third time in its history. Companies will be asked to permit work from home.
The city will host the Games for the third time in its history. Companies will be asked to permit work from home.

The city will host the Olympics Games for the third time in its history. Companies will be asked to permit work from home.

A Vision for a Car-Free Olympics

As Los Angeles prepares to host the 2028 Olympics, Mayor Karen Bass has announced an ambitious plan to make the event a “no-car Games.”

Speaking at a press conference in Paris, Bass emphasized the city’s efforts to address its notorious traffic problems by expanding public transportation and reducing reliance on cars during the event.

Expanding Public Transportation

Bass highlighted that public transportation will be the primary mode of travel for accessing Olympic venues. To support this, the city is already working on expanding its public transit infrastructure.

This includes the introduction of 3,000 buses borrowed from other U.S. cities, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can navigate the city efficiently without the need for personal vehicles.

Also read: LA’s historic Pacific Dining Car faces uncertain future after devastating fire

Learning from the Past

Reflecting on the 1984 Olympics, which Los Angeles also hosted, Bass noted that concerns over traffic at the time were largely unfounded. The city’s approach in 1984 included staggering workforce hours to reduce traffic, a strategy that proved effective.

However, Bass aims to take it a step further in 2028 by encouraging remote work for non-essential employees, a concept that has become more feasible in the digital age.

Challenges and Comparisons

While Paris has been praised for its accessible public transit during the Games, Los Angeles faces a different challenge.

The city’s current public transportation system, which includes bus and light rail services, pales in comparison to those of recent Olympic host cities like Paris, London, and Tokyo. With only two subway lines, LA’s infrastructure will need significant improvements to meet the demands of a car-free Olympics.

Engaging Businesses and Moving Forward

Bass acknowledged that she has yet to secure a commitment from local businesses to allow employees to work from home during the Games.

However, she remains optimistic, citing the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic about the feasibility of remote work.

The next step involves engaging with major employers in the city to discuss staggered work hours and other strategies to reduce traffic during the 2028 Olympics.

A Greener Los Angeles

Ultimately, Bass’s vision for a “no-car Games” is part of a broader effort to build a greener Los Angeles.

By reducing traffic and expanding public transit, the city hopes to set a new standard for sustainable Olympic Games, ensuring that both residents and visitors can enjoy a seamless, environmentally-friendly experience in 2028.

Gary Monroe

Gary Monroe is a seasoned contributor to the Los Angeles Business Magazine, where he offers insightful analysis on local business trends and economic developments. With a focus on Los Angeles' dynamic commercial landscape, Gary's articles provide valuable perspectives for entrepreneurs and business professionals in the city.

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