Full Breakdown
Los Angeles Chosen Over New York as U.S. Bid for 1984 Summer Olympics
5/2/2026, 7:18:40 AM
Los Angeles Selected as U.S. Representative for 1984 Summer Olympics
On September 25, 1977, in Colorado Springs, the United States Olympic Committee’s executive board voted 55-39 to name Los Angeles the American city that would submit a bid for the 1984 Summer Games. The decision was immediately reported to International Olympic Committee president Lord Killian. No other U.S. city entered a bid, and foreign cities were given until October 31 to file proposals.
Financial and Facility Comparisons
Los Angeles offered a $183.5 million low-capital budget, using an existing main stadium and avoiding federal funds. New York’s plan required $533.5 million, including a $252.5 million deficit to be covered by state lotteries and support. New York secured a $400,000 state appropriation; Los Angeles raised about $40,000 privately. The Mets’ Shea Stadium lease and a $74 million renovation were cited as obstacles.
Official Statements from City Leaders
Bradley described the Los Angeles bid as a “spartan” return to Olympic ideals and cited the Triple-A bond rating as proof of fiscal health. Carey called the comments “inappropriate,” arguing that public safety is a national concern. Brown asserted Los Angeles is not dependent on any single politician or region, emphasizing a private-sector driven economy. Kane expressed confidence that Los Angeles would be the final U.S. candidate and highlighted the decisive vote margin.
Criticism and Opposition from New York Delegation
New York officials accused Mets chairman M. Donald Grant of undermining the bid by threatening to move or sell the team if Shea Stadium were repurposed. They highlighted a detailed Olympic Village plan on Roosevelt Island, contrasting it with Los Angeles’ lack of a firm village commitment. Board members also raised concerns about New York’s projected $252.5 million deficit and limited practice facilities for the expected 12,000 athletes.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
Sources differ on the vote composition: one account notes a 15-15 split among the 30 sports-governing members, while the final tally shows a 55-39 board vote. The Athletes’ Advisory Council was reported to have voted as a bloc for Los Angeles, a claim Ed Williams denied. No foreign city had formally entered the international bidding process at the time of the U.S. selection, leaving the global field uncertain.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I can't assume Los Angeles will be the only city,” — Robert J. Kane, USOC President
- “Our streets are safe and our people are free of the fear and tension which grips most large cities,” — Tom Bradley, Mayor of Los Angeles
- “not dependent on any given politician, state or region whose tenure is limited and unpredictable.” — Edmund G. Brown Jr., Governor of California
- “Bradley's remarks, Governor Carey termed them “inappropriate” and added, “crime is a national problem, street safety is a national problem deeply rooted in the causes of social upheaval.” — Hugh Carey, Governor of New York
What’s Next
The USOC will forward Los Angeles’ designation to the International Olympic Committee. Foreign cities have until October 31 to submit bids, and officials may encourage another U.S. contender to secure firm financial commitments from Los Angeles.
