Mirage Resorts’ NLV golf course plan put on hold

Lisa Snedeker

Monday, Jan. 11, 1999 | 10:47 a.m.

Residents anxious to get a chance to play golf next to the exclusive Shadow Creek course won't be teeing up any time soon.

That's because a Mirage Resorts plan to build two more golf courses in North Las Vegas is on hold.

The North Las Vegas City Council originally approved plans in July 1997 for an 18-hole course that was expected to open in conjunction with the Bellagio hotel-casino.

"As we got deeper into construction with the Bellagio and Beau Rivage (in Mississippi), we realized we weren't going to get the golf courses done," said Mark Russell, vice president and general counsel for Mirage Resorts.

Russell said the golf course project has been put on hold until after the Beau Rivage opening, scheduled for March 15.

The City Council last week unanimously approved a one-year extension on a zone change and a use permit for two proposed golf courses on the property located north of Ann Road, west of Pecos Road and Centennial Parkway. The parcel is owned by Las Vegas Concrete Corp., one of the companies owned by Steve Wynn, the owner of Mirage Resorts.

The first course, which is being designed now by Tom Fazio, would initially be designated for Mirage customers.

"We are evaluating the demand and the type of course for those who stay at our property," Russell said. "Depending on demand, that will decide accessibility for the general public."

So far, only a reconfiguration of the major roads has been done and no date has been set for the start of construction.

Russell said he did not know the estimated construction costs.

Construction of a second course will be market driven, according to Russell.

"Things change over time," he said. "When you are going to spend that kind of money, you want to make sure you are doing the right thing. Right now we are not sure two courses is appropriate."