Los Angeles faces major hurdles as 2028 Olympics approach

Los Angeles faces major hurdles as 2028 Olympics approach

A decade ago, Los Angeles officials confidently pitched their city as the next US host of the Summer Olympics, promising perfect weather, a $1 billion Olympic Village, a car-free Games, and a network of ready stadiums. But as the 2028 Games approach, many of these plans have been scaled back. The city now faces obstacles including worker shortages, a looming budget deficit of nearly $1 billion, and political challenges ahead of mayoral elections, the New York Times reported.

Wildfires, funding, and federal uncertainty
The catastrophic wildfires in January have diverted city attention and resources. Meanwhile, questions loom over the federal government’s commitment to the $4 billion promised for security and transport, amid an antagonistic administration. Economic fears of recession and immigration crackdowns may also reduce overseas visitor numbers.

Scaling back key features and legacy concerns
Some marquee elements, like the Olympic Village, have been abandoned due to cost, with athletes instead housed in university dormitories. Events have been relocated—canoe slalom moved 1,300 miles to Oklahoma City, and volleyball shifted away from Santa Monica’s iconic beach. These changes reduce the potential legacy of visible new infrastructure from the Games.

Transit challenges and the car-free vision
Early bids promised a car-free Olympics, with all spectators travelling by public transport or foot. Now officials admit cars will still be used but encourage public transit where possible. Some planned transit projects remain incomplete, though key upgrades like an electric people mover to LAX are expected to be ready.

A triple threat: fires, budget, and politics
Experts warn of a “triple whammy” complicating preparations: the wildfires, financial shortfalls, and the unpredictable federal political climate. Yet city officials remain optimistic, citing past resilience during economic downturns, including the 1984 Games hosted during a recession.

Funding and future outlook
Organisers aim to raise $7.1 billion through sponsorships and ticket sales. With $5.1 billion committed so far, officials are confident the remainder will come from sales. Despite challenges, former mayor Eric Garcetti views the Olympics as a symbol of Los Angeles’s enduring ability to recover from crises.

“LA is the city of comeback stories,” Garcetti said. “Whether it’s earthquakes, riots, civil unrest, fires—the rising from the ashes is the story waiting to be told.”