Los Angeles Aims for “No Car” Policy at 2028 Olympic Games

Los Angeles Aims for “No Car” Policy at 2028 Olympic Games

The city of Los Angeles is set to promote public transportation as the primary mode of travel during the 2028 Olympic Games, according to Mayor Karen Bass. Speaking at a press conference in Paris, Bass emphasized the city’s commitment to a “no car” approach for the event, encouraging residents and visitors to rely on public transit to access Olympic venues.

Los Angeles, a city synonymous with car culture and notorious for traffic congestion, is making significant efforts to shift away from its decades-long reliance on automobiles. The city’s extensive freeway system, once a symbol of modernity, has contributed to severe congestion and poor air quality over the years.

“The ‘no car’ Games means that you will have to take public transportation to get to all of the venues,” Bass stated. She highlighted ongoing efforts to expand the city’s transportation infrastructure in preparation for the Olympics. To further ease traffic, Los Angeles plans to deploy 3,000 buses loaned from across the country.

In support of these initiatives, the U.S. government recently pledged $900 million to enhance Los Angeles’ rail and bus systems ahead of the Games. Although the term “no car Games” may raise concerns among Angelenos, Bass clarified that there will be no outright ban on driving to venues like Dodger Stadium and the Rose Bowl, which have parking facilities. However, the focus will be on maximizing the use of public transit.

“We’re already working to create jobs by expanding our public transportation system in order for us to have a ‘no car Games’,” Bass said. “It’s a significant challenge in Los Angeles, where we’ve always had a strong affinity for our cars. But we’re committed to building a greener Los Angeles for the future.”