Letter: Rhodes should reconsider plan for Red Rock

Friday, April 18, 2003 | 4:40 a.m.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a natural treasure and recreation area not only for local people in the Las Vegas area but also for many thousands of tourists and visitors from around the country and the world. Blue Diamond Hill is geographically and visually part of Red Rock. Any development on Blue Diamond Hill, and the associated increased traffic on State Route 159, would have a very degrading impact on Red Rock, ruining the scenic beauty, increasing deaths of wildlife along the road, and increasing noise and air pollution.

Despite public opposition, Jim Rhodes, a developer, recently bought 2,400 acres on Blue Diamond Hill with the obvious intent of developing it. Rhodes should seriously consider being a good citizen by selling, swapping, or even donating the land to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area rather than becoming a perpetual pariah to his community by building on Blue Diamond Hill. What will it be: A lasting legacy for the environment for present and future generations to enjoy, or degradation of our wonderful Red Rock for the financial benefit of Jim Rhodes?

GARY BECKMAN