Las Vegas: Light Rail Presented as Best Option to Connect Strip, Airport, Downtown [View all]

NV: Light Rail Presented as Best Option to Connect Strip, Airport, Downtown

J.D. MORRIS ON JAN 13, 2016
SOURCE: MCCLATCHY


Jan. 12--Why does Las Vegas need light rail?

It would link the airport, the Strip and downtown Las Vegas, a critical connection that would benefit both the economy and the tourist experience, a local transportation official said today.

And it's the best type of transit to accomplish that goal, according to David Swallow, senior director of engineering and technology with the Regional Transportation Commission.

Swallow told the board of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority that planners looked at multiple technology options. They eventually recommended light rail because it has the flexibility to be expanded into a larger system, it's a proven technology that has been used elsewhere and it could draw in "a certain ridership," he said.

"Light rail systems tend to have a little panache that attracts a different type of rider," Swallow said. .............(more)

http://www.masstransitmag.com/news/12158044/light-rail-presented-as-best-option-to-connect-strip-airport-downtown