The history of the Las Vegas Monorail is rocky, from maintenance issues to financial problems and a bankruptcy that eventually saw the overhead train system fall under the ownership of the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority. As the monorail finally gets on track (👏), the future isn’t so bright.
😢 Why the Las Vegas Monorail is Going Away?
The monorail was built by a division of Bombardier (yes, the same Bombardier that makes private jets) that was eventually absorbed by another company. As the monorail gets older, replacement parts are becoming more scarce and it will become harder, if not impossible to make repairs. Eventually, the monorail will have to be decommissioned. We’re just not sure when.
🙏 Is There Hope for Saving the Monorail?
Whenever the monorail stops running, a track will be left behind that runs nearly four miles. The MGM Grand station is next to the Tropicana site, where a major league baseball stadium is planned. A’s President Dave Kaval already views the monorail as part of the transportation plan for fans. It’s not impossible that someone could eventually develop a new train to match the tracks already in place.
👍 What is the True Legacy of the Monorail?
The Las Vegas Monorail is operated as a registered non-profit corporation that provides a public service. No public money was used in its construction, although Nevada assisted in bond financing. Maybe that’s an example other big transportation projects could follow?
🚆 Should we enjoy it while we can?
Yes! As everything else gets more expensive on the Strip, the monorail remains incredibly efficient and affordable, even if it doesn’t go to the airport or Downtown. Locals can even enjoy rides for a dollar 🤑 when making a purchase from a staffed station and everyone gets discounts when purchasing online. We have to say, the monorail is actually pretty great! [City Cast Las Vegas 🎧]
