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2028 Olympics Planning Causes Eminent Domain Disputes in LA

By Peterson Law Group on February 20, 2024

Los Angeles is getting ready to host the 2028 Olympics, and as a result, there is an urgent need for transportation upgrades to handle the large influx of athletes and visitors. Expanded rail lines, metro extensions, and upgraded hubs are crucial to prevent congestion.

These improvements will ensure seamless mobility and logistical efficiency for a successful event. Unfortunately, hosting the Olympics disrupts a city’s infrastructure, prompting extensive upgrades to accommodate the influx of athletes, spectators, and visitors. This can alter transportation, housing, and public spaces in the city.

The “Twenty-Eight by ‘28” Plan

The “Twenty-eight by ’28” plan is a comprehensive strategy to enhance Los Angeles’ transportation infrastructure in preparation for the 2028 Olympics. It encompasses a series of ambitious projects to improve mobility across the city. These projects include expanding rail lines, extending the metro system, and upgrading existing transportation hubs. The plan’s name signifies the goal of completing these initiatives by the time the 2028 Olympics begin. By accelerating transportation improvements, the plan aims to alleviate congestion, enhance connectivity, and ensure efficient transportation for athletes, spectators, and visitors during the games.

Impact on Private Property

Time is running out to complete all the necessary rail lines and metro projects before the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. With a fixed deadline approaching, there is increasing pressure to expedite construction and infrastructure upgrades to ensure readiness for the influx of athletes and spectators during the games.

The accelerating “Twenty-eight by ’28” plan for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles raises worries about private property rights. Property owners might confront eminent domain, risking displacement and loss of livelihoods due to infrastructure projects. Negotiating fair compensation amidst tight deadlines poses additional challenges, highlighting concerns for reverse condemnation.

Eminent Domain

The “Twenty-eight by ‘28” plan can potentially lead to eminent domain cases. Eminent domain is the government’s power to take private property for public use, provided the property owner receives just compensation. It’s typically invoked for infrastructure projects like roads or utilities. The government must justify the taking as serving the public interest, and property owners have the right to fair compensation.

Ways the plan can lead to eminent domain cases include:

• Land acquisition for infrastructure: The “Twenty-eight by ’28” plan may necessitate the acquisition of private land for infrastructure projects such as road expansions, metro extensions, or transportation hubs, leading to eminent domain cases.
• Business displacement: Implementation of the plan’s initiatives could require the removal or relocation of businesses to make way for Olympic-related developments, potentially triggering eminent domain proceedings if negotiations fail.
• Public use requirements: Certain aspects of the plan for public spaces or venues might require the acquisition of private property for public use, justifying eminent domain actions by the government.

Reverse Condemnation

Reverse condemnation occurs when a property owner initiates legal action against a government entity, alleging that the government’s actions have effectively taken or diminished the value of their property, even though no formal eminent domain proceedings have been initiated by the government. This can happen in situations where government actions, such as:

• Property devaluation: Implementing the “Twenty-eight by ’28” plan, including transportation upgrades and infrastructure projects, may result in changes to property values. If these changes negatively impact property values due to factors such as increased noise, traffic, or loss of privacy, property owners may file reverse condemnation claims seeking compensation for the diminished value of their properties.
• Displacement of businesses: The expansion of rail lines, metro extensions, and other transportation projects under the plan may require the acquisition of private properties, including businesses, through eminent domain. If businesses are displaced or negatively affected by these acquisitions, their owners may pursue reverse condemnation cases to seek compensation for lost income, relocation expenses, or damages to their businesses.
• Environmental impacts: Infrastructure projects associated with the “Twenty-eight by ’28” plan, such as highway expansions or construction of transportation hubs, could have environmental consequences that affect nearby properties. For example, increased pollution, changes in water runoff patterns, or disruption of wildlife habitats may lead to reverse condemnation claims by property owners seeking compensation for environmental damages or loss of enjoyment of their properties.

What To Do When Facing Eminent Domain

When facing eminent domain cases due to the “Twenty-eight by ’28” plan for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, property owners have several options. They can negotiate with government agencies for fair compensation, challenge the necessity or public benefit of the taking, or seek legal representation to defend their property rights. Additionally, property owners can engage in mediation or arbitration to resolve disputes amicably.

Eminent Domain Is Our Specialty

As a property owner in Los Angeles, it’s crucial to understand your rights, assess the government’s offer carefully, and seek assistance from an experienced Los Angeles eminent domain lawyer. For assistance with your eminent domain dispute, contact Peterson Law Group PC. We are here to navigate the complex legal process and secure the best possible outcome. Reach out to us at (213) 319-4993 today.