Project Summary
This project evaluates the accessibility and equity impacts of transportation infrastructure investments accelerated under Los Angeles Metro’s “28 by 28” initiative, in preparation for the 2028 Olympic Games. The research develops a detailed future transit scenario using GTFS data to estimate changes in public transit accessibility across Los Angeles County, comparing current and post-project conditions. Accessibility impacts are assessed both collectively, by analyzing the combined effect of all selected projects, and individually, by estimating the marginal impact of each project. The study examines how accessibility gains are distributed across geographic areas and socio-demographic groups, particularly by income and race/ethnicity, using inequality metrics such as the Gini coefficient, Theil index, and Palma ratio. A qualitative comparative analysis with the transport legacy of the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Olympics is conducted to extract lessons and identify potential risks. The findings can inform local agencies and stakeholders on how large-scale transportation investments linked to mega-events can contribute to long-term mobility improvements and more equitable access to opportunities.
