Southern California and traffic seem inextricably entwined – just try going to a sporting event. How do sports and entertainment fans do anything without budgeting an hour for idling on packed freeways?

Luckily, forward-thinking visionaries are making efforts to break this pattern – this mode of thought. In Inglewood, two-term mayor James T. Butts is also a twoterm member and past chairman of LA Metro’s Board of Directors. Under this leadership, a huge infrastructure project is about to pay off, bringing not only L.A.’s first rail connection to LAX, but also offering sports and entertainment fans alternatives to taking their personal vehicle to the city’s many venues.

Soon, driving towards the airport, the Forum, or the new SoFi Stadium will seem just a bit lighter. Or maybe you won’t be driving at all. With rail connections, an automated people mover under construction (and another planned) and various ride- or bike-share options, you may find yourself on an alternative route to a football game, basketball playoff, or just to enjoy the sights and sounds of the city on a Sunday afternoon.

Skip looking for parking and turn off your mapping software: Exploring Inglewood and enjoying its many amenities is strictly ahead of the curve.