Las Vegas NBA Arena and Casino Project Gets First Approval

Developer LVXP has received initial approval for its proposed casino-resort project (l.) that also features an 18,000-seat, NBA-ready arena that could be used to draw an expansion franchise to the city.

Las Vegas NBA Arena and Casino Project Gets First Approval

A proposal from Las Vegas development group LVXP to build a multibillion-dollar complex that would feature an NBA-ready arena, a casino and hotel towers received unanimous approval from the Winchester Town Advisory Board Nov. 12.

The matter will now proceed to the Clark County Commission, but it’s unclear when that will take place. Certain approvals, including a building height clearance from the Federal Aviation Administration, must be granted before commissioners will consider the proposal. One of the structures is slated to be 752 feet tall, which would make it the tallest in Las Vegas.

The project is located on the north end of the Las Vegas Strip near the Fontainebleau and the Sahara, on the site of the former Wet n’ Wild waterpark. Las Vegas has long been circled as the next market to receive an NBA expansion team, and the 18,000-seat arena is designed with that purpose in mind.

At the recent hearing, concerns were raised from nearby residents as to how the structures would impact views, given their height. Traffic disruptions were also a concern. When asked about financing, officials said they could begin to pursue various options once the county gives its approval.