In brief
Los Angeles, long known for its car dominance, is slowly shifting towards a cycling-friendly environment with the introduction of bike lanes as it gears up for upcoming sporting events. While many residents support this change, some remain skeptical about its impact on traffic and commuting.
With its sprawling streets and notorious traffic jams, Los Angeles has remained synonymous with car culture for decades. However, as the city gears up to host the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games, a shift may be on the horizon, with renewed attention to cycling and public transit. Damian Kevitt, executive director of Streets Are For Everyone (SAFE), says LA boasts ideal weather for cycling, yet car dependency remains entrenched. Currently, about 1% of Angelenos bike to work, while only 7% utilize public transport, a stark contrast to cities like New York. Recognizing the need for change, Los Angeles initiated the "Twenty-eight by '28" transport plan in 2017, aiming to enhance mass transit and add substantial bike lanes ahead of the Olympic events. While hundreds of thousands of visitors are expected, the sentiment among some Angelenos is divided. Many welcome the new infrastructure; however, others express frustration. Darin Drabing, president of Forest Lawn Cemetery, is among those fighting against bike lanes, arguing they exacerbate traffic congestion. Despite mixed reactions, there are success stories; for instance, cyclist Mimi Holt, who had abandoned biking due to fears of dangerous traffic, found renewed motivation after her doctor advised her to exercise more. With improved safety and connectivity among bike lanes, she believes she could reduce her car usage or eliminate it altogether.Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is optimistic about creating a "transit first" Olympics, advocating for both cyclist and mass transit solutions. However, progress has been slow, with only five out of the "Twenty-eight by '28" projects completed so far. In an effort to expedite this transformation, city leaders have requested additional federal funds, hoping for support from Trump administration officials.Despite ongoing concerns about safety and capacity for bike culture growth in a previously car-centric city, some enthusiasts remain hopeful. They envision a future where cycling is easier and safer, as they ride towards the possibility of a transportation revolution that extends far beyond the Olympic Games.
