Backers of Boston's Olympics Bid Defend Controversial Proposal

Backers of Boston's embattled bid to host the 2024 Olympic Games on Monday defended the proposal against criticism that it will saddle the city with debt, saying new international guidelines will help lower costs. Olympic Committee in January passed up bigger cities including Los Angeles and Washington to pick Boston as the nation's bid for the 2024 Summer Games but its choice immediately came under fire by city residents and elected officials who worried taxpayers would be left to foot much of the proposed $9.5 billion cost of the event. About seven of 10 respondents said they were worried taxpayers would be left to foot the bill, though Boston Mayor Marty Walsh has repeatedly said he would not allow that to happen.