The head of Boston’s Olympic bid is offering no firm answers on whether some events could be held in western Massachusetts. Top state lawmakers have said some venues should be located outside the Boston area. Boston 2024 CEO Richard Davey says that’s a possibility, but he wants residents and local leaders to consider other ways to get involved.

“The national Olympic teams from many nations will come to Massachusetts early, prior to the games,” Davey says. “Some may want to practice and/or participate in events even before the Olympic games. I think that’s an area where the entire could welcome, even adopt, a national Olympic committee prior to the games.”

Facing a drop in poll numbers, Boston 2024 says it wants a statewide referendum next year to gauge support for the Olympic bid. The group is holding a public meeting on its proposal on Thursday night in Springfield.

I asked Richard Davey why anyone outside Boston should support the Olympic bid. To hear his answer and a full interview, click the audio player above.