By Alan Snel, LVSportsBiz.com Publisher-Writer
LAS VEGAS, Nevada — Twenty race cars. Ninety minutes.
That’s all there is for the Las Vegas Grand Prix Nov. 23.
But my, what an impact this Formula One race event has had on roads, businesses and people’s lives in Las Vegas.
In Year 2 when the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix caused unprecedented disruptions to commerce and car flow, the race setup along the Strip and three surrounding public roads has been less intense during a 17-week road schedule. That’s mainly because F1 paved the 3.8 miles last year before the fencing, barriers and light mounts were installed.
LVCVA head Steve Hill and Las Vegas Grand Prix chief Renee Wilm cut the race deal in secret and Hill then sold the race to Clark County commissioners, who approved the F1 event last year.
One store owner who says he lost millions of dollars in revenue because of the race barriers is Wade Bohn of Jay’s Market at Koval Lane and Flamingo Road. LVSportsBz.com interviewed Bohn Thursday after he came to the store Tuesday to see a pedestrian bridge and ramp installed in front of his store’s entrance on Koval Lane.
It should be noted there were race barriers last year blocking access from Koval Lane to Jay’s Market. But this year, the pedestrian bridge and other pedestrian gear were installed in front of the entrance, giving an imposing look.
The Las Vegas Grand Prix came to Las Vegas in Year 1 in 2023 and failed to connect to the local market, seeking to sell the most expensive average ticket on the F1 circuit. In Year 2, Wilm and her grand prix staff have sought to make nice in Las Vegas by handing out free tickets and having students and artists do art work and murals. The race also has local food trucks at a fan experience event.’