As Los Angeles gears up to host the 2028 Olympics, Mayor Karen Bass expressed both excitement and anxiety about the preparation needed for the big event. The focus is on improving public transportation to ensure that attendees can easily access the various venues without relying on cars. Bass envisions a city where public transportation is the primary mode of transport during the Games, requiring investments in bus and subway infrastructure. The goal is to eliminate street homelessness by building new housing units for the unhoused population and making arrangements with local businesses to adjust work schedules to ease traffic congestion.
Utilizing City Landmarks
While Los Angeles will not be constructing new permanent venues for the Olympics, organizers face the challenge of utilizing the city’s iconic landmarks to showcase the event. LA 2028 President Casey Wasserman highlighted the importance of creating a memorable experience for attendees, akin to what was achieved in Paris with the Eiffel Tower as a backdrop for beach volleyball. Wasserman discussed the possibility of incorporating famous locations like the Hollywood Sign into the Games, potentially using CGI to transform the sign with Olympic imagery.
Cultural Representation
Actress Jessica Alba, a board member of Los Angeles 2028, emphasized the opportunity the Games present to showcase the city’s diverse cultural landscape on a global stage. From Hollywood to fashion to food, Alba sees the Olympics as a platform to celebrate and promote the unique facets of Los Angeles. The goal is to make the city a central character during the event, highlighting its vibrancy and creativity to a worldwide audience.
As the city of Los Angeles prepares to host the 2028 Olympics, key stakeholders are focused on enhancing infrastructure, utilizing iconic landmarks, and celebrating the city’s diverse culture. The road to the Games is paved with challenges and opportunities, with a shared vision of creating a memorable and impactful event for participants and spectators alike. With careful planning and collaboration, Los Angeles is poised to deliver an unforgettable Olympic experience in 2028.