Editorial: Finally, a vision for downtown

Monday, July 21, 2003 | 8:46 a.m.

The city of Las Vegas did the right thing in January when it started anew in planning for the 61 acres of vacant land that it acquired three years ago from Union Pacific. Its first attempts at development of the downtown parcel failed because they were premature -- proposals were sought before anyone at City Hall really agreed on a vision for the acreage. After reviewing several proposals and not approving any of them, the City Council made a decision to regroup. It appointed a task force composed of citizens, City Council members and planners, and allowed it to work without the pressure-charged atmosphere accompanying past efforts.

We are impressed with the drawings the task force presented last week to the City Council. The mixed-use proposal follows a plan that has worked in other cities faced with the need for major redevelopment of downtown areas. We like the variation in size of the proposed office and residential buildings -- some tall, some short, providing an interesting skyline. The anchor on the north side would be an academic medical center, which has always been the dream of Mayor Oscar Goodman. A performing arts center would anchor the south side -- a facility that would instantly improve the quality of life in Las Vegas. High-density residential areas -- essential for the revitalization of downtown -- are also part of the vision, as are parks, other open spaces and restaurants. And the whole "urban village" would be served by public transportation.

Precisely how the 61 acres is developed will remain controversial for some time. But at least now there is a clear vision to work from, a factor that may one day lead to its success.