LA Metro gets $94.3 million from Congress for better transit during Olympics in 2028

LA Metro will be getting help in enhancing transit during the Los Angeles Summer Olympic Games in 2028.

The U.S. Congress approved $94.3 million in transit and “mobility-related” funding for the LA 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, LA Metro announced on Tuesday, Feb. 3.

The bipartisan transportation spending measure was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Donald Trump.

Metro will use the funds to plan for the crush of spectators descending on Southern California from July 14 to July 30, 2028, with the opening ceremony on July 14, 2028. It is the third time Los Angeles will host the Summer Olympic Games.

The Paralympic Games will take place Aug. 15 to Aug. 27.

The money will be used to enhance stations and make light-rail improvements, develop mobility hubs and pedestrian access near the game venues.

One of LA Metro’s main goals for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games is to reduce mind-numbing traffic on freeways, roadways and bridges as the region is swarmed with up to 15 million visitors to see the games or participate.

“The 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games are a time for America to shine on the world stage – and we know that transportation will be a key part of the visitor experience,” said Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins in a press release.

The county transit agency thanked Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff, and Representatives Pete Aguilar and Norma Torres on the House Appropriations Committee for their help approving the funding.

“This bipartisan effort, which also included support from Secretary Duffy, Administrator Molinaro, and the staff of the US Department of Transportation, will be essential for success. We look forward to collaborating with the federal government to deliver a world-class experience for everyone coming to the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” said LA Metro Chair Fernando Dutra, a member of the Whittier City Council.

The transit agency has created a transit plan for the games that includes renting buses from outside agencies in order to add service.

Fourth District L.A. County Supervisor Janice Hahn, a member of Metro’s Ad Hoc 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games Committee, has pushed for a water taxi between Long Beach and San Pedro to move spectators between Olympic Games venues without getting on the crowded freeways and roadways.

Her proposal was deemed feasible in December by the Metro governing board.

Hahn, who served as chair of the agency in 2024, had asked for the agency’s enhanced transit plan to be created and for LA Metro to coordinate with other transit agencies and the federal government.

“We appreciate this bipartisan support from Congress and this Administration, and we look forward to continuing to work with them to provide the needed resources so everyone coming for America’s Games can have a gold medal experience in 2028,” added Wiggins.