A Lasting Monument
The Olympic Games Los Angeles 1984 ensured that improvements could be made to one of the most prominent sporting venues in the city: the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The Organising Committee spent more than USD 5 million for permanent renovation work on the stadium, improving elements such as the electrical supply and sanitation, and constructing a new perimeter.
Originally built in 1921 as a memorial to Los Angeles veterans of World War I, the venue was used for the Olympic Games Los Angeles 1932. In 1984, it hosted track-and-field events as well as the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the Games.
The Coliseum has played host to two Super Bowl championships of the National Football League and a World Series – the annual championship series of Major League Baseball (MLB) in North America. It is also home to the University of Southern California American football team. In 2015, the University of Southern California announced its plans to renovate the Coliseum, and began renovation work at the start of 2018.
The total project cost is estimated at USD 270 million and will be fully privately funded by the University of Southern California using funds from Coliseum restoration gifts, sponsorship revenue, non-University events, and donor-naming opportunities. The project will not require any student fees or general university, local, state or federal funds. The renovation is due to be completed in 2019, and will benefit the Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028.