LA’s 2028 Olympics: A Lasting Infrastructure Showcase
Table of Contents
- 1. LA’s 2028 Olympics: A Lasting Infrastructure Showcase
- 2. AECOM Tapped as Venue Infrastructure Partner for LA28
- 3. Key Project Details
- 4. A “No-Car” Olympics? The Transportation Vision
- 5. AECOM’s Role: architecture, Engineering, and More
- 6. Sustainability and Cost-Effectiveness: A Core Focus
- 7. AECOM’s Olympic Legacy
- 8. Challenges and Opportunities
- 9. Addressing Potential Counterarguments
- 10. What are AECOM’s specific strategies for making LA28 a “no-car” Olympics, particularly regarding the utilization and improvement of existing public transportation systems like the Metro Rail?
- 11. LA’s 2028 Olympics: A Lasting Infrastructure Showcase
- 12. Interview with Anya Sharma, Lead Infrastructure Planner for LA28
- 13. Sustainability as a Core Value
- 14. The “No-Car” Olympics Vision
- 15. Challenges and Long-Term Impact:
- 16. Looking Ahead
By Archyde News Journalist
AECOM Tapped as Venue Infrastructure Partner for LA28
Los Angeles is gearing up to host the 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympic Games, marking its third time hosting the global event after 1932 and 1984.AECOM, a Dallas-based infrastructure consulting firm, has been selected as the venue infrastructure partner, tasked with delivering a sustainable and cost-effective program.
The 2028 games are expected to feature over 50 Olympic and Paralympic sports, approximately 800 events, and more than 15,000 athletes. Unlike previous Olympics that required extensive new construction, LA28 aims to leverage existing infrastructure and temporary venues.
Key Project Details
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Award | Olympics venue infrastructure |
| Value | Not disclosed |
| Location | Los Angeles, California |
| Client | Olympic and paralympic Games and Team USA |
A “No-Car” Olympics? The Transportation Vision
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has set an enterprising goal: a “no-car” Olympics. This doesn’t mean cars will be banned outright, but rather that organizers aim to encourage public transportation and reduce reliance on private vehicles. However, according to AECOM’s project page, the LA28 plan will “not require the construction of any additional transportation infrastructure beyond what the region is already building.” This suggests a focus on optimizing existing systems and promoting option transportation options.
This vision aligns with the “Twenty-Eight by ’28” initiative launched under former Mayor Eric Garcetti, which outlines 28 key transit projects intended to improve connectivity throughout Los Angeles by 2028. These projects include extensions to the Metro Rail system, new bus rapid transit lines, and improvements to existing roadways.
For U.S.readers, consider the implications: Reduced traffic congestion could make attending events more convenient and enjoyable. Investment in public transit could provide long-term benefits for residents, improving accessibility and reducing transportation costs. The success of a “no-car” olympics could serve as a model for other major events and urban areas across the United States.
AECOM’s Role: architecture, Engineering, and More
AECOM’s involvement extends beyond mere construction. Their scope of work includes infrastructure architecture, engineering, planning, program management, and construction management services. AECOM Hunt,a division of the company,will handle procurement,cost estimation,scheduling,and construction management of the venue infrastructure.
The firm also played a crucial role in the initial bidding process, providing technical and design support, cost estimation, and sustainability and energy consulting for the LA 2024/LA28 Exploratory Committee.
“The Olympic and Paralympic Games unite the world through sport, and we are honored to contribute our expertise to help bring LA28’s vision to life,”
Troy Rudd, AECOM CEO
Sustainability and Cost-Effectiveness: A Core Focus
A primary goal of the LA28 Games is sustainability. By utilizing existing venues and temporary overlays, organizers aim to minimize the environmental impact and reduce construction costs. This approach contrasts with some previous olympics that have been criticized for excessive spending and environmental damage.
For example, the 2004 Athens Olympics left behind numerous abandoned and decaying venues, while the 2014 Sochi Winter olympics were the most expensive in history, raising questions about long-term benefits. LA28’s emphasis on sustainability and cost-effectiveness represents a shift towards a more responsible and pragmatic approach to hosting the Games.
AECOM’s Olympic Legacy
AECOM brings a wealth of experience to the LA28 project, having worked on previous Olympic Games in London (2012), Rio (2016), and Tokyo (2021).This experience positions them well to navigate the complexities of planning and executing a massive sporting event.
AECOM’s past experience includes:
- London 2012: Providing infrastructure and program management services.
- Rio 2016: Contributing to the design and construction of key venues.
- Tokyo 2020 (held in 2021): Supporting the delivery of sustainable and efficient infrastructure solutions.
Challenges and Opportunities
despite the focus on existing infrastructure, LA28 still faces challenges. securing funding, managing logistics, and coordinating various stakeholders will require careful planning and execution. The “no-car” vision also presents hurdles, as Los Angeles is known for its car culture. Convincing residents and visitors to embrace public transportation will require a concerted effort.
However, the LA28 Games also present significant opportunities. Thay can serve as a catalyst for infrastructure improvements, promote sustainable practices, and showcase Los Angeles to the world. The Games could leave a lasting legacy of improved transportation, enhanced public spaces, and a stronger sense of community.
What are AECOM’s specific strategies for making LA28 a “no-car” Olympics, particularly regarding the utilization and improvement of existing public transportation systems like the Metro Rail?
LA’s 2028 Olympics: A Lasting Infrastructure Showcase
Interview with Anya Sharma, Lead Infrastructure Planner for LA28
Archyde News: welcome, Anya.Thanks for joining us today to discuss the exciting preparations for the 2028 los Angeles Olympics. AECOM’s selection as the venue infrastructure partner is a significant advancement. Can you tell us more about the scope of their work?
Anya Sharma: Thank you for having me. Yes, AECOM’s role is incredibly thorough.We’re talking about everything from the architecture and engineering of the venues to program and construction management. Our goal is to create world-class facilities that are not only functional for the Olympics but also leave a positive legacy for Los Angeles, focusing on cost-effectiveness and sustainability.
Sustainability as a Core Value
Archyde News: Sustainability seems to be a key focus. How is LA28 aiming to achieve this, particularly given that this is the third time Los Angeles has hosted the Olympics?
Anya Sharma: Absolutely. A core principle is to leverage existing infrastructure as much as possible,and using temporary overlays to construct new venues. This allows us to minimize environmental impact and reduce construction costs compared to previous Olympics where new construction was dominant. We aim to have a games that is both cost effective and beneficial for Los Angeles’ infrastructure.”
The “No-Car” Olympics Vision
Archyde News: The “no-car” Olympics initiative proposed by Mayor Bass is enterprising. How realistic is this vision, and how will AECOM contribute to its success?
Anya Sharma: It’s a bold target, but definitely achievable. The plan hinges on enhanced public transportation and reduced reliance on private vehicles. AECOM is working to ensure the existing transportation framework including existing transit lines,and Metro Rail system,are optimized. The goal is to make public transportation the most attractive and convenient option for both residents and international visitors and ensure ease of travel.
Challenges and Long-Term Impact:
Archyde News: what do you see as the biggest challenges ahead for LA28, and what lasting impact do you hope these Games will have on Los Angeles?
Anya Sharma: Funding and logistics, of course, are crucial. Coordinating multiple stakeholders and managing the scale of the event will require careful planning. The “no-car” vision also requires a change in the ways people travel. However, the opportunities are immense.We aim to improve infrastructure, show case lasting practices, and showcase the city to the world. We hope the games leaves a legacy of an enhanced transportation system and a stronger sense of community which continues to benefit to the residents of Los angeles.
Looking Ahead
Archyde News: AECOM has past experience with the London, Rio and Tokyo Olympics.Does this contribute to the success of the 2028 Olympics?
Anya sharma: Absolutely. This experience means we bring a wealth of expertise to the table, having worked on previous Olympic Games in London (2012), Rio (2016), and Tokyo (2020). This experience well to navigating the planning and execution of this event.
Archyde News: Thank you, Anya, for sharing your insights. It is exciting to see LA gearing up for the 2028 Olympics.
Anya Sharma: Thank you for having me.
