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TL:DRA $2.4 billion rail project that would have been a key part of Los Angeles' 2028 Olympic infrastructure has been scrapped after local opposition.The Inglewood Transit Connector Project
replaced plans for a suspended light-rail system with a shuttle bus network after a series of consultations with businesses and communities in the area.Newsweek contacted the project's management for comment via email.
Why It Matters
The Inglewood Transit Connector Project was designed to upgrade Los Angeles' public transportation infrastructure ahead of the city's hosting of the 2028 Olympic Games.
The original plan would have seen an automated light-rail system introduced in Inglewood, transporting tourists and other travelers above street level to and from the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, where the next Olympics will take place.What To Know
In a statement released on Monday, the project's managers, LA Metro, said that there would instead be a staggered rollout of new shuttle bus routes along with "enhanced smart traffic technology."
Plans for the light-rail system no longer appear on the project's timeline, and there is no mention of the original design in the project's Q&A update either.
"The rephased plan is based on insights gained through engagement with the Inglewood community, including workshops and one-on-one meetings with business owners and community members," the statement behind the decision read.
"Officials view the reimagined approach as a critical first step in meeting the core needs of Inglewood residents and businesses, including traffic relief, connected and walkable neighborhoods, and a more accessible downtown area."
The light-rail system would have been 1.6 miles long and was given a $2.4 billion budget. Elevate Inglewood Partners had been selected to carry out the construction on the rail system before the changes were announced.The rail plans had faced severe opposition from Los Angeles Rams owner Stan Kroenke and LA Clippers owner Steve Ballmer, with a spokesperson for Kroenke saying the project would have "threatened the future development" of the business.What Happens Next
The shuttle bus system will be delivered by 2028, in time to support the influx of tourism expected for the Olympics
My Thoughts ðŸ’
Billionaires win again. This rail project was stopped by the sports owners in LA. But the cost is just crazy. 1.6 miles of suspended light rail is almost 25k Bitcoin (25B sats!!) it’s crazy how expensive it is to do construction in major metropolitan areas like LA. Now getting around on buses is going to suck for sure. Any stackers plan on going to the 2028 Olympics?