Editorial: Patience is the key to success

Friday, March 30, 2001 | 10:15 a.m.

The Urban Land Institute, a respected think tank, threw some cold water on Mayor Oscar Goodman's desire to quickly develop 61 acres of prime, vacant land that is in downtown Las Vegas. Recently these land policy experts said that developing a project that truly would stand the test of time might take five to 10 years to develop, which seems like an eternity for the mayor -- and many city residents -- who want to see a revitalized downtown now. Still, this is an endeavor that should proceed with plenty of deliberation.

For that matter, the city should listen to the suggestions made by the Urban Land Institute, which successfully has helped other big cities, such as San Diego, develop their downtowns. "This needs to stand on its own as a world-class project," said James Goodell, chairman of the Urban Land Institute. "It needs to give Las Vegas a civic statement that is befitting of a major world-class city." For starters, Goodell said gaming shouldn't be considered, which is a smart recommendation. Some of the ideas under consideration that have real potential include an academic medical center, performing arts center and high-density residential development.

Goodman's enthusiasm to offer immediate solutions to longstanding problems in Las Vegas is refreshing. The mayor, to his credit, is the kind of individual who wants things done yesterday. But this is a situation where the mayor and the City Council need to take a long-term approach to develop this land, which could take some time if it's to be done right. The wait could be well worth it.