(Oakland Athletics coach Ramon Hernandez signs autographs for fans at Las Vegas Ballpark during a preseason game against the Milwaukee Brewers in March 2024. Photo by Mark Hebert.)
From F1 Racing and High-Speed Rail to a Revitalized Rio, Las Vegas Plans for a Groundbreaking Year with Expansions, Environmental Initiatives, and Citywide Enhancements
by Exhibit City News Staff
As Las Vegas builds momentum toward 2025, a slate of transformative projects and milestones is reshaping the city’s tourism, transportation, and events landscape. From sustainable event standards at the Las Vegas Convention Center to major renovations, high-speed rail, and innovative air mobility initiatives, each project underscores the city’s focus on sustainable growth, enhanced visitor experiences, and advanced infrastructure.
Las Vegas Convention Center Achieves Gold in Global Sustainability Standards, September 2024
In late September 2024, the Las Vegas Convention Center reached a significant milestone with a GOLD certification in the Events Industry Council’s (EIC) Sustainable Event Standards. The certification, validated by the Alliance for Audited Media, emphasizes the convention center’s commitment to eco-friendly practices across its 4.6 million square feet. This includes climate action, water conservation, materials management, and community inclusivity, positioning the LVCC as a sustainability leader in large-scale event venues.
Las Vegas Strip Sees 12 Percent Rate Hike as Visitor Numbers Rise in ‘24
According to October 2024 data, Las Vegas hotel rates rose 12 percent year-over-year, with the Strip’s average daily rate climbing to $186.06 in August. The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority reported 3.4 million visitors in August, a 2.4 percent increase from August 2023, despite a slight drop from July’s figures. Occupancy on the Strip averaged 84.6 percent, while revenue per available room increased 13.6 percent, underscoring steady tourism demand in a changing accommodation landscape.
Las Vegas High-Speed Train Secures $3 Billion, Paving Way for 2025 Construction Start
Brightline West secured a $3 billion federal grant in October to push forward its high-speed rail project connecting Las Vegas and Southern California. Scheduled to break ground in early 2025, the all-electric train will operate along I-15 and aims to complete the trip in just two hours at speeds over 200 mph. Expected to be ready before the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, the rail system promises to create 35,000 jobs, reduce I-15 congestion, and eliminate more than 400,000 tons of emissions annually.
Rio Hotel & Casino’s Renovation Revitalizes a Las Vegas Icon, 2024
Dreamscape Companies is leading a major transformation of the Rio Hotel & Casino, a 34-year-old Las Vegas landmark. Starting in October, the renovation includes upgrades to the Ipanema Tower, new dining venues, and enhancements to popular entertainment spaces such as VooDoo Steak and rooftop patios. Scheduled for completion by year-end, the phased updates bring a fresh appeal to local patrons and out-of-town guests, with additional improvements anticipated through 2025.
Las Vegas Preps for 2024 F1 Race Amid Mixed Reactions, Roadwork Impacts Local Businesses
Las Vegas gears up for the 2024 Formula One Grand Prix, which brings substantial infrastructure updates to the 3.8-mile circuit along the Strip. Backed by Clark County and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, the project aims to boost global visibility but has drawn criticism from local businesses affected by road closures and accessibility issues. To address last year’s concerns, F1 organizers have adjusted timelines and added community outreach efforts, striving for a smoother experience when the race unfolds in November.
Construction Nears for Oakland A’s Las Vegas Ballpark and Resort Following Tropicana Implosion
Following the October demolition of the Tropicana Hotel & Casino, Bally’s Corporation and the Oakland A’s are set to construct a $1.5 billion ballpark and resort on the site. Construction is scheduled to start by spring 2025, with plans for the A’s to debut in Las Vegas for the 2028 season after a temporary stint in Sacramento. To safeguard public investments, the A’s must demonstrate full private funding before accessing the $380 million state-approved public funds.
Las Vegas Loop Expands with New Stations at Westgate and Encore, Targeting 2025 Airport Access
Elon Musk’s Las Vegas Convention Center Loop is adding new stops at Westgate and Encore hotels, expanding connectivity for convention attendees and Strip visitors. Currently active during conventions, the underground transit system aims to reach Harry Reid International Airport by early 2025.
FAA Approves Rules for Powered-Lift Aircraft, Ushering in Next Era of Air Mobility
On October 22, 2024, the Federal Aviation Administration released new rules for certifying pilots and instructors of powered-lift aircraft, marking the first new civil aircraft category since the 1940s. This regulatory step prepares for advanced air mobility applications, such as urban air taxis and rural cargo services. FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker noted the significance of this regulation in paving the way for powered-lift aircraft to join U.S. commercial airspace, heralding a new era in air transportation.
