The SoFi Stadium is considered the most expensive stadium in the world and has already hosted major sporting events such as the Super Bowl and the prelude to the Leagues Cup, both events taking place in 2022. More world-class events are expected to take place in the coming years.

In order to improve access to the stadium, the city of Inglewood has approved a new transportation system that will connect the Inglewood downtown tube station with Forum Kia and SoFi Stadium. This ambitious project aims to further develop the economic potential of the city and take advantage of all that the new stadium offers.

New Road Project

An elevated highway that will run for a mile and a half and will have three stations will be created, and is expected to be ready before the 2028 Olympics. The total cost will be about $1.5 billion.

However, the project does come with its downside. Around 41 businesses that have been in Inglewood for many years will be forced to be displaced. This displacement is something that affects the owners and employees of these businesses, and they are not happy with this new project according to what they told Telemundo 52.

Business Assistance Fund

There is a $5 million business assistance fund to help the displaced businesses relocate. The owners, however, are worried that even if they are relocated in a nearby area, it will never be the same.

“Even if they move us one mile, two blocks will not be the same, it will never be the same,” said Esaúl Martín, owner of Fiesta Martín Bar and Grill. “It has taken a lot of work, a lot of sacrifice, both for the family and for the employees that we have to create this business.”

Conclusion

The SoFi Stadium is iconic, attracting major international sporting events that bring together thousands of people from all over the world. However, the new innovative transport system aimed at improving accessibility and developing the economic potential of the city has come at a cost for some small businesses. Nonetheless, the project includes a business assistance fund aimed at supporting the displaced businesses in relocating to a new area.