Los Angeles officials addressed tourism and economic hopes for the 2028 Olympics at a state Senate hearing. Concerns were raised about how federal immigration policies and visa wait times might deter international visitors. Ryan Becker stated the strong U.S. dollar contributes to higher costs for travelers. Expectations indicate a 9% decline in international travel to California, the first decline since 2020. LA28, responsible for funding the Olympics, could lead to financial risks for the city if costs exceed budgets or revenues fall short.
Ryan Becker, a senior vice president at the tourism group Visit California, described the challenges to attract visitors to the state for the Olympics - although the scenario may change in three years.
Some headlines about border detainment and aggressive enforcement action are certainly heightening concern and exacerbating some longer-standing issues we've had at the federal level, referencing concerns about long visa wait times for would-be U.S. visitors.
Overall, international travel is expected to be down more than 9% in California this year, the first overall tourist decline since 2020, Becker said.
Organizers with LA28, the private entity overseeing the Games, are responsible for raising and spending the $7 billion needed to host the massive event.
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