The Boston 2024 Olympic bid is dead. While a majority Bostonians were opposed to hosting the games I’m disappointed, but not for the reason many might suspect. I had hoped that the planning required for hosting the Olympics would spur innovative ideas on improving our infrastructure and revitalizing parts of Boston. Those opposed to the Olympic bid have insisted this can be done without hosting the games, but I would like to ask when this might happen? The last time serious investment was made in our infrastructure was when the Big Dig was approved in 1987. That project’s reputation for delays and cost overruns alongside our City Hall’s bureaucracy has stymied any serious redevelopment (excluding the Seaport) and seen little if any investment in Boston’s infrastructure and public transportation system; anyone remember the MBTA’s woes last winter?
As a South End resident promised a Silver Line subway, I’m suspicious of empty promises to invest in Boston’s infrastructure.
To those who insisted that we don’t need the Olympics to invest in our city’s and the region’s infrastructure, I’d like to ask when I can expect to see something tangible? What is it about our current political climate that should make me optimistic? If only half the energy that was spent decrying the Olympics is diverted to making improvements we should see some wonderfully innovative suggestions and plans coming forward – but for now I’m waiting.
BosGuy 