LAS VEGAS (AP) - A nonprofit group specializing in growth management says the Las Vegas Valley was built up too rapidly over the past three decades, leading to unsustainable land-use, water and transportation policies.
The Tucson, Ariz.-based Sonoran Institute released its report Monday. It says the valley must shift from growth-dependent industries of construction and hospitality and create policies to diversify the economy and sustain resources for future generations.
The $40,000 study was commissioned by the Sierra Club and the Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada, which represents more than 40 liberal-leaning groups in Nevada.
Alliance officials said the depressed economy gives valley leaders an opportunity to replace land-use policies with what they say are more sustainable methods.
"I think developers have dictated public policy, and that's got to end," said PLAN spokesman Launce Rake. "I hope the report fuels dialogue and open debate on this issue."
Local governments accommodated developers to increase the tax base and create jobs, leading to some poor planning decisions such as Lake Las Vegas and half-finished neighborhoods in the north valley, according to Rake.
The report also said the valley should be linked through public transportation. Rake is advocating for a light-rail system.