Since the news that the world’s richest motorsport would feature a race in the world’s Entertainment capital, locals and tourists alike have been ecstatic to see the results!
However, some may not have accounted for the complete chaos that it would create in the heart of Las Vegas.
Road closures began in late August, and are still continuing well through October.
Koval, Harmon, Sands, and the major road Las Vegas Blvd. were all closed for sometimes up to weeks to make way for structures like grandstands, barricades, and light fixtures.
Locals, particularly those who work at the casinos on the Las Vegas strip, are frustrated with closures and detours being made due to the construction of the circuit.
“F1 has significantly made an impact on how I get around,” says Ryleigh Johnson, a student at Foothill High School who worked at the MGM Grand while the longest road closures occurred.
Audrie Lane and Harmon Avenue, right where the MGM Grand employee parking garage happens to be, were closed for large portions of the day from September 21st to October 4th. The closures meant that casino employees had to find new routes to work.
“The freeway is already busy as it is, and I’ve noticed since F1 has come in town that traffic is significantly worse…,” Johnson adds. “I am constantly having to leave super early just to be on time to my job… or even just to get home at a decent time from my job.”
Tourists are also frustrated with the construction that has been shutting down parts of The Strip.
As more sidewalks and walkways are closed to aid the building, tourists are forced to cross multiple bridges and walk down makeshift pathways that stand next to the previously bustling sidewalks.
Famous attractions, like the Bellagio Fountains, have not only been altered to make room for the grandstands but have also been completely closed off to pedestrians.
Although The Strip seems lost in chaos for the moment, Las Vegans and tourists alike are still barely able to sit still in anticipation of the grand event.
The motorsport enters the city on November 16th and will wrap up on November 18th with an epic grand prix through the famous neon lights of Sin City!
