Back in the mid-1940s, Los Angeles underwent significant changes that limited commuters to either driving or taking public buses. This transformation led to severe traffic congestion in the city, with reports of people resorting to storing household items in their cars to deal with the gridlock. Movies such as Falling Down and Clueless have highlighted the challenges of driving in LA, depicting the struggle of navigating through the congested streets.
During the 1984 Summer Games, traffic was a concern, but organizers successfully managed the situation by encouraging people to use buses and scheduling truck deliveries during off-peak hours. The upcoming 2028 games, however, present a new challenge with an increase in the number of athletes and spectators. This calls for innovative solutions beyond reusing old plans from previous events.
Infrastructure Improvements
Los Angeles is currently in the process of rebuilding its public transportation system, investing billions of dollars in creating a more extensive network. Aside from buses, the city now boasts four light-rail lines and two subways, following the routes of the once-operational electric trolleys. The planned improvements for the 2028 Olympics include connecting airport terminals to the rail system, utilizing buses to transport people, and expanding bicycle lanes throughout the city.
Despite the efforts to promote public transportation during the Olympics, there are challenges ahead, such as completing an environmental review for a proposed bike path along the Los Angeles River. Organizers may succeed in achieving a car-free event by discouraging driving and parking through stringent measures. However, the long-term behavior change needed to shift LA away from its car-centric culture remains uncertain.
Overall, the transformation of Los Angeles’ transportation system reflects a continuous effort to address traffic congestion and promote sustainable modes of transit. While the 2028 Olympics present a unique opportunity to showcase these improvements, the city’s ability to maintain these changes post-event is a critical factor in shaping its future mobility landscape.