5 Good Reasons to Have the Olympics Come to Chicago in 2016

Chicago, the "Windy City", could possibly be hosting the world's Olympics in the year 2016. Our city has put its bid in, and in October 2009 we'll find out if we've been chosen as the winner of the games for that year. A lot of people have a lot at stake if we get it, and if we don't get it. Honestly, I have mixed feelings about having the games here. I don't necessarily hope we get it, nor do I really hope that it doesn't come here, either. For your reading purposes I'll think of some good reasons to have the Olympics here in Chicago.

1. Economic development is needed in Chicago.

The amount of jobs that would come from the Olympics coming to Chicago would be phenomenal. The work that would need to be done to prepare for such an event would require volunteers, full-time staff, part-time staff, experts, and the like. At a time when across America people are getting laid off left and right and recruiters are tighter about who they hire, these would be opportunities that almost anyone could embrace if you have a love and respect for Chicago.

The housing that would be created and the space that would be needed to house such an event is magnanimous. More hotels would be needed; more temporary housing would be needed. Some of this housing wouldn't just be for the Olympics either. There are plenty of areas in Chicago now that are getting major facelifts. Areas like Bronzeville doesn't look anything like it did five years ago when it was mostly a project-ridden area, now there are beautiful houses and mansions within that community. The West Side also has some real estate development changes over the past few years. Having the Olympics here could only improve this throughout the entire city.

I would imagine with an event of that size more international retail stores and boutiques would be making their way to the Chicago area as well to capitalize on the international spending that would be taking place during that time and prior to. This would prove good for those of more ethnic communities who might be looking for work, or looking for a way to present their heritage to Chicago in a way that's meaningful as well as profitable.

2. It will expose our youth to an international worldview on a higher level.

Our youth has seen sports of all kinds here, but I think the international flare that the Olympics would bring would be great exposure for them if they are able to witness any part of it. Even if they don't see the Games themselves, seeing the international crowds throughout the downtown area and throughout the different neighborhoods of Chicago would be a great chance to see what Chicago is really all about. It's one thing to see different cultures, but it's a completely different story to see the unification of these cultures. Chicago is known for its diversified neighborhoods, but the unification of these cultures could leave an indelible impression on our youth that they can't get from schoolbooks. It wouldn't just be about sports, but about life and purpose.

3. Those who have always wanted to see the Olympics will have it right in their backyard.

I'll admit this is why I want the Olympics to come to Chicago in 2016. I would LOVE to see the Olympic Games right here in my hometown! It would definitely save me (and other Chicagoans) on airfare, hotel costs, and food expenses. I would just need to go to the venue where that sport is being held at. I want to see the Opening Night ceremony where all the athletes come together and they have the fanfare and the regalia and the whole nine yards with the artistry; I think it will be beautiful.

4. The weather should be perfect for that time of year.

Chicago summers on average aren't very hot, thank goodness! In mid-to-late July we should be averaging about 85 degrees for our high, and about 66 for the low as far as temperature. You may get some rain here and there but not too much.

5. From the air, to under ground, we have the transportation means to support an event this big.

O'Hare Airport is one of the world's busiest airports, receiving flights in and out of the country on a daily basis. Our bus and train system is top-notch covering every part of our city and suburbs. As far as getting around, you can't ask for too much more than what Chicago will offer you. If you already live here, chances are you will be able to take a bus/train to wherever the Games are. Given the amount of traffic that will be there, I'm sure that shuttles will be provided for you from various locations.

If you're staying at a nearby hotel, don't rent a car. I think traffic will be crazy, honestly, especially in the downtown area. I'd consider getting a bus pass for a week or so. As far as those coming in from out of town or out the country that are actually a part of the Games, I don't think it'll be much of a problem for them to get around our city. There's a lot to see and do while they're here in Chicago, and once they've gotten their medals, once they've performed for the public, the city will still await them.