Caltrans is developing a complex Games Route Network across Southern California during the 2028 Olympic & Paralympic Games.
The network would designated Olympic-only lanes on 369 miles of roadway (236 on freeways and 134 on local streets), dedicated for permitted vehicles carrying athletes, coaches, officials, and event staff. Angelenos who don’t carry the required permit could face fines of $293 for driving in Olympic lanes.
Major affeced freeways include the 5, 10, 101, 105, 110, 134, 210, and 405, crossing through Los Angeles, Orange, and San Diego Counties, according to CBS News.
The plan involves turning existing corridors, such as carpool lanes, ramps, and selected lanes, into clearly marked roadways with blue “LA28” signage.
How the $293 fine works
In July, Governor Newsom signed California Senate Bill 169, which gives state and local authorities the ability to reserve HOV and other traffic lanes for 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games vehicles.
Authorized vehicles would display an LA28-issued decal, label, or identifier that clearly distinguishes them as operating within the Games network. Motorists who enter a designated LA28 lane could face a fine of up to $293.
Enforcement is expected to rely on an automated system of cameras, sensors, and other technology to identify and cite violations.
The law requires a 30-day warning period for motorists who enter a restricted lane or route, resulting a warning letter. Unless the department extends the 30-day period, motorists will start facing fines when that warning period ends.
While the restrictions would be temporary, they could reshape the city’s most routine commutes and traffic patterns during the Games.
The Olympic Games run from July 14–30, 2028, followed by the Paralympic Gamess from August 15–27, 2028.
