Los Angeles mayor Karen Bass has announced plans for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles to be a “no-car Games,” utilizing public transportation instead of private vehicles. This surprising move aims to create a greener Los Angeles and reduce the city’s reliance on cars, which have long been a dominant mode of transportation in the car-centric city.
Despite being known for its traffic congestion, Los Angeles is working to improve its public transit system in preparation for the Olympics. The city has a history of car dependency, stemming back to the decline of the Pacific Electric “Red Car” trolley system in the 1950s. However, with initiatives like “Twenty-eight by ’28” to complete transit projects before the Games, LA is making strides towards a more sustainable transportation infrastructure.
Paris, the current host of the Olympics, has set a high bar for environmentally friendly games with its “greenest games ever” initiative. By using existing facilities, promoting sustainable practices, and prioritizing public transit access to venues, Paris demonstrates the potential for a car-free approach to hosting major events.
To achieve a successful “no-car Olympics,” LA is focusing on improving public transit coverage and encouraging businesses to reduce car traffic during the Games. By leveraging lessons from past experiences, such as managing traffic during freeway closures and implementing remote work options, the city aims to shift towards a more transit-oriented future.
Through investments in public transit and innovative strategies to reduce car usage, Los Angeles has the opportunity to showcase a more sustainable and efficient transportation system during the 2028 Olympics. By embracing a car-free approach and emphasizing the benefits of public transit, LA can redefine its reputation as a city notorious for traffic congestion.
