glitterpunkrealtor blog

Las Vegas Transportation

September 15, 2024

Getting to and around Las Vegas is typically done by plane and motor vehicle. There are those brave soles that commute via public bus. If you are a local, you rely heavily on a car to travel from one side of town to the other. And if you are visiting and staying off the Strip, then you will have to rely on a rental, taxis or ride-shares if you dare to venture outside of the prime tourist corridor. With the Strip being so pedestrian focused so it can entice the public to wander around the casinos and bars, it’s time we provide that similar vibe in more of our overall transportation systems across the valley. Cities need to have transportation diversity to serve more people without relying on vehicles. I’m so thrilled to see the upcoming transportation projects come to life.

Before we review some of the in-progress and future projects, here is a quick overview of the existing transportation infrastructure in the valley. Las Vegas offers a variety of transportation options to suit different needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the most common modes of transportation:

Public Transportation

RTC Bus: The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) operates an extensive bus network throughout the valley. You can find schedules, routes, and fare information on their website: https://www.rtcsnv.com/

RTC Ride Share: RTC’s ride-sharing service provides door-to-door transportation for individuals with disabilities. The Strip Bus: This dedicated bus route runs along the Las Vegas Strip, connecting major hotels and attractions.

Taxis: Licensed taxis are readily available throughout the city. Ride-Sharing Apps: Popular ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available in Las Vegas.

Other Considerations

Rental Cars: If you’re planning to explore the surrounding areas or frequently travel outside of Las Vegas, renting a car might be a convenient option. Walking and Biking: For shorter distances, walking or biking can be a great way to get around, especially in areas with pedestrian-friendly streets and bike lanes.Tip: Consider using a transportation app or website to plan your trips and find the most convenient route for your destination.

On-going and Upcoming Transportation Projects

Las Vegas Monorail: This elevated rail system connects several resorts along the Strip. While it has faced challenges in the past, there have been discussions about revitalizing the monorail or exploring alternative transportation options for the Strip.

Regional Transportation Commission Projects: RTC is continually working on various projects to improve the transportation infrastructure in the valley, including expanding bus routes, building new bus stops, and exploring other transit options. Additionally, there are road improvement projects that have just begun that are intended to improve the flow of all traffic including better bus stops and bike lanes.

Maryland Parkway Corridor Project

The Maryland Parkway Corridor Project is a significant infrastructure development in Las Vegas, Nevada. This project aims to revitalize the Maryland Parkway corridor, a major thoroughfare running through the heart of the city.

Key Objectives:

Improve Traffic Flow: The project will address traffic congestion and improve the overall mobility of vehicles along Maryland Parkway.
Enhance Pedestrian Safety: The corridor will be made more pedestrian-friendly with wider sidewalks, improved crosswalk infrastructure, and enhanced lighting.
Promote Economic Development: The revitalization of Maryland Parkway is expected to attract new businesses and stimulate economic growth in the surrounding areas.
Enhance Aesthetic Appeal: The project will include landscaping, public art, and other enhancements to improve the visual appeal of the corridor.Specific Components:
Road Widening: In certain sections, Maryland Parkway may be widened to accommodate increased traffic volume.
Bike Lanes: The corridor will be equipped with designated bike lanes to promote cycling as a sustainable transportation option.
Bus Stops: Modern and accessible bus stops will be installed along the corridor to improve public transportation services.
Utility Upgrades: Underground utilities will be upgraded to support future development and reduce maintenance costs.

Impact on Las Vegas: The Maryland Parkway Corridor Project is expected to have a positive impact on Las Vegas by improving traffic flow, enhancing safety, and stimulating economic growth. It will contribute to a more vibrant and attractive city for residents and visitors alike.

Local news coverage of the ground breaking

Boulder Highway Improvements

The improvements on Boulder Highway between Las Vegas and Henderson are a significant infrastructure project aimed at enhancing the road’s capacity, safety, and overall functionality. These improvements are expected to address the growing traffic congestion and improve the commuting experience for residents and visitors alike.

Key components of the project include:

Widening of the road: This could involve adding lanes in both directions to accommodate increased traffic volume.
Improved intersections: Upgrades to intersections may include new traffic signals, turn lanes, and pedestrian crossings to improve traffic flow and safety.
Enhanced pedestrian and bicycle facilities: The project may include the construction of sidewalks, bike lanes, and pedestrian bridges to improve the safety and accessibility of the road for non-motorized users.
Utility upgrades: Underground utilities may be relocated or replaced to support the new road infrastructure and reduce the risk of service interruptions.Benefits of the project:
Reduced traffic congestion: Widening the road and improving intersections will help alleviate traffic congestion and reduce travel times.
Improved safety: The project will enhance pedestrian and bicycle safety with new facilities and improved crossings.
Economic development: The improvements may stimulate economic growth in the area by making it more accessible and attractive for businesses and residents.
Enhanced quality of life: The project will improve the overall quality of life for residents and visitors by providing a safer and more efficient transportation corridor.Overall, the improvements on Boulder Highway are a positive development that will benefit the Las Vegas-Henderson region by addressing traffic congestion, enhancing safety, and promoting economic growth.

Brightline West

Finally, let’s talk about the high-speed rail that will provide an alternate mode of commuting between California to Las Vegas.

Brightline West is an ambitious project aimed at connecting Las Vegas, Nevada, to Rancho Cucamonga, California, via a high-speed rail system. This innovative project is expected to revolutionize travel between these two major destinations, offering a faster, more sustainable, and more comfortable alternative to driving or flying.

Key Features of the Project:

High-Speed Travel: The trains are designed to reach speeds of up to 200 miles per hour, significantly reducing travel time compared to traditional transportation methods.
Modern Infrastructure: The project will utilize advanced technology and infrastructure, ensuring a comfortable and efficient passenger experience.
Environmental Sustainability: Brightline West is committed to minimizing its environmental impact, with plans for electric-powered trains and sustainable construction practices.
Economic Benefits: The project is expected to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and reduce traffic congestion along the I-15 corridor.

Project Timeline and Status: Construction on Brightline West is underway, with the anticipated completion date in 2028. Once operational, the service is expected to attract millions of passengers annually, providing a convenient and enjoyable transportation option. If successful, it will be the first interstate truly high-speed rail in the nation.

Potential Impact: The completion of Brightline West could have a significant impact on tourism, business travel, and overall quality of life in the region. By offering a faster, more efficient, and environmentally friendly mode of transportation, the project could attract more visitors to both Las Vegas and Southern California.

For more information, visit the Brightline West website: https://www.brightlinewest.com/

And finally, what I hope to see in the near future is a valley interconnected by diverse modes of transportation that include light rail lines. Once you experience reliable public modes of transportation in urban areas, it’s hard not to want it available everywhere!

How are you feeling about transportation in Las Vegas?

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