Los Angeles recently showcased its public transit capabilities during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, successfully managing the influx of fans.
This success offers a glimpse into the city’s potential for handling the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games, though significant challenges remain.
The World Cup served as a testing ground for L.A. Metro, which utilized data-driven planning and customer-focused initiatives to streamline transit operations. According to Cubic, Metro’s efforts included optimizing services, introducing tech solutions, and collaborating with venues to predict crowd flow. These strategies led to a notable increase in ridership, with over 311 million boardings in 2024, marking the highest since before the pandemic.
Looking ahead to the 2028 Olympics, L.A. Metro faces the challenge of accommodating millions of visitors in a city known for its car-centric culture. The Clean Energy Wire reports that plans include expanding the bus fleet, improving infrastructure, and implementing a “transit-first” approach. However, slow planning and funding issues have hindered progress.
Despite these hurdles, transit experts remain optimistic. They believe that with continued focus on modernizing the system and leveraging past experiences, L.A. Metro can successfully implement its plans. The agency is committed to making the transit system more inclusive and accessible, ensuring that it leaves a lasting legacy beyond the Olympics.
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