• SummerSouth Insider
  • Posts
  • 🛣 Clark County Approves $130M Contract for 215 Beltway-Summerlin Parkway Interchange Upgrade

🛣 Clark County Approves $130M Contract for 215 Beltway-Summerlin Parkway Interchange Upgrade

Issue #286 - September 18, 2024

Dear SummerSouth Insiders!

🚀Exciting News Ahead & We Need Your Support!🌟

Hello, amazing subscribers! We're gearing up for some thrilling developments and can't wait to share them with you! But here's the thing – we need a little boost from our most valued members: You! 🙌

Here's How You Can Make a Huge Impact:

  • 💌Spread the Word: If you love our daily newsletter, why not share it? Whether it's family, friends, neighbors, or the friendly faces running local businesses – if you think they'll enjoy our content as much as you do, let them know! Your recommendation means the world to us and helps our community grow.

  • 👍 Join Us on Facebook: Ready for more engaging content? Simply visit our Facebook page at SummerSouth Insider and hit that 'Like'

    and ‘Follow’ button! It's a click away but makes a massive difference. Plus, you'll be in the loop for exclusive updates and conversations!

Your support is the backbone of our journey. Together, let's build a community where everyone benefits from insightful, daily content. Thank you for being a part of our exciting path forward! 🌈💪

📌✅ Classifieds

Funeral Advantage Plan

There’s a new low cost final expense insurance plan available for seniors between 50-85. This plan can cover all of your final expenses:

burial
cremation
flowers
viewing
caskets
urns, and so much more.

To learn more, watch here.

Download the Free CheatSheet to learn more.

📆 Weekly Local Events for September 2024

Regular weekly events in or near Summerlin, Las Vegas are listed below.

Visit here to lookup specific venue information or for upcoming and/or non-weekly events on Meetup.

Monday

Monday Classes At Latin Blendz: (Every week on Monday @ 10AM)

Socially Vegas - Monday Night Bowling @ The Orleans Bowling Center: Must arrive/check-in before 7pm; 7 - 10pm (Every week on Monday); COST (CASH Only) $10 for 2 games (includes shoes) COST: $12 for 3 games (includes shoes)

Monday Night TRIVIA at ReBAR, 1225 S Main St, Las Vegas: (Every week on Monday @ 7PM)

Tuesday

Sand Volleyball Intermediate, Rusty and Old Time Players @ Aloha Shores Park (NW), Cheyenne & Buffalo, 7550 Sauer St, Las Vegas: (Every week on Tuesday @ 6 - 8 PM)

Run Drink Las Vegas - Weekly Tuesday Run @ Frankie’s Uptown patio: 7PM (Every week on Tuesday), FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @rundrinklv FOR THE LATEST WEATHER/TIMING UPDATES

Wednesday

Business Leads Group - Networking Breakfast @ Summit Restaurant, Eagle Crest Golf Course, 2215 Thomas W Ryan Blvd, Las Vegas: Cost $20 cash, 7 - 8:30 AM (Every week on Wednesday)

Early Risers Toastmasters Meeting (In-Person - Summerlin Egg Works / Online Event: 7 - 8 AM (Every week on Wednesday)

Las Vegas Valley Bicycle Club - Wednesday Morning Ride @ Einstein Bagels: 9 - 11:30 AM (Every week on Wednesday)

Speakers & Leaders of Summerlin Toastmasters Meeting, Summerlin Egg Works, 2025 Village Center Cir, Las Vegas: 12 - 1:30 PM (Every week on Wednesday)

Thursday

Abundance Business Networking Group Online Event: 7 - 8:30 AM (Every week on Thursday). Please arrive 10-15 minutes early for networking. Steps to access our BNI Online™ Virtual Chapter Meeting, visit website.

Las Vegas Real Estate Investors Association - Weekly Power Lunch For Real Estate Investors: 11 AM - 1 PM (Every week on Thursday). Request to join here.

Free Salsa Classes @ Feel The Music Dance Studio: 7 - 8 PM (Every week on Thursday). Visit the website to register online.

Summerlin Bitcoin Happy Hour, SG Bar, 9580 W Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas: 6:30 PM (Every week on Thursday)

Coed Soccer - Summerlin: Crossings Park, 1111 Crestdale Ln, Las Vegas: 7:30 - 9:45 PM (Every week on Tuesday/Thursday)

Friday

Find Your Yoga Las Vegas - Flow & Yin W / Noé Hilyard @ Yoga Sanctuary: 6 - 7:15 PM (Every week on Friday) View Yoga Sanctuary's full schedule.

Swing Dancing in Las Vegas Vintage and Modern Swing Dances @ The Mint Tavern: 7:30 - 8:30 PM (Every week on Friday)

Saturday

Vino Las Vegas Wine & Yacht Club Brunch: 9 AM - 2 PM (Every Saturday and Sunday)

Find Your Yoga Las Vegas - Saturday Morning Meditation with Practitioner Selina Kelly @ Yoga Kandy, LLC. Cost: Love Donation $5-$10 suggested. 11 - 11:45 AM (Every week on Saturday)

Sunday

Las Vegas Valley Bicycle Club - Sunday Morning Ride @ Einstein Bagels: 9 - 11:30 AM (Every week on Sunday)

Vino Las Vegas Wine & Yacht Club Brunch: 9 AM - 2 PM (Every Saturday and Sunday)

Level 1 West Coast Swing @ 2580 N Rancho Dr, North Las Vegas: 7 - 8 PM (Every week on Tuesday); Drop in Rate is $15, Monthly pass is $50; Register online.

🌤 Summerlin South, Las Vegas Weather Forecast

Las Vegas Gas Prices

 

🛣 Clark County Approves $130M Contract for 215 Beltway-Summerlin Parkway Interchange Upgrade

A major upgrade to the 215 Beltway-Summerlin Parkway interchange is set to begin after Clark County commissioners approved a $130 million contract with Las Vegas Paving, one of the largest public works contracts in the region. The contract, approved unanimously as part of the commission’s consent agenda on Tuesday, was awarded after Las Vegas Paving's bid significantly undercut the nearly $205 million bid from Fisher Sand and Gravel Company.

Scope of the Project

The extensive project includes the construction of four new roadway bridges, the widening of the existing Summerlin Parkway bridge over the 215 Beltway, and the addition of three trail bridges. These upgrades aim to improve traffic flow and safety in an area that sees both heavy commuter and recreational traffic.

In addition to the bridge work, the project will involve the installation of new retaining walls, storm drainage facilities, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, street lighting, and modifications to traffic signals. Utility modifications and relocations are also part of the scope, ensuring the infrastructure can accommodate the new developments.

Clark County had initially expected construction to begin earlier this year, but the design phase took longer than anticipated. Additionally, during the planning stages, the responsibility for maintaining Summerlin Parkway shifted from the city of Las Vegas to the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT), which delayed the project’s start. Construction is now expected to begin later this year, with an estimated completion time of about two years.

Impact on Traffic and Regional Infrastructure

NDOT has highlighted the importance of the interchange project, although the agency is not directly involved in its construction. NDOT spokeswoman Kelsey McFarland called the development “an exciting and vital project” for the region. “It’s aimed at greatly improving traffic flow and safety in an area that sees a significant amount of commuter and recreational traffic,” McFarland noted in an email.

The project is expected to streamline access between the 215 Beltway and Summerlin Parkway, offering more direct routes for motorists and improving the connection to key areas in and around Summerlin. These changes should ease congestion, which has been a growing concern as Summerlin continues to expand with new residential and commercial developments.

Last year, NDOT completed a separate seven-month-long project on Summerlin Parkway between the 215 and Buffalo Drive, which involved repaving and cleaning the median. McFarland emphasized NDOT's ongoing commitment to maintaining Summerlin Parkway and ensuring it can support future infrastructure improvements. "We remain committed to working closely with Clark County on the necessary coordination for the project and look forward to enhancing the community's access to this important roadway."

Future Benefits

The 215 Beltway-Summerlin Parkway interchange project is expected to provide long-term benefits, reducing travel times for local commuters and improving access to popular destinations in Summerlin and beyond. The addition of trail bridges will also improve connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists, expanding the area’s transportation infrastructure to accommodate non-motorized travel.

Residents and businesses in the surrounding areas are expected to experience the most significant improvements, with easier and faster access to the 215 Beltway and the Summerlin Parkway. As one of the fastest-growing areas in Las Vegas, the Summerlin community stands to benefit greatly from this project, which will support continued development and make the area more accessible to both locals and visitors.

Looking Ahead

As construction gets underway, Clark County officials, along with NDOT, are emphasizing the importance of community coordination and public awareness. The project is part of a larger initiative to upgrade infrastructure throughout the Las Vegas Valley, ensuring it can keep up with growing population demands and traffic increases.

Motorists should expect construction-related delays in the short term, but the project is expected to be a transformative upgrade to the interchange, ultimately improving the flow of traffic, reducing congestion, and enhancing safety for the many commuters and recreational visitors who rely on these key roadways daily.

⚾ Las Vegas Aviators Seek PCL Championship Berth in Crucial Homestand

The Las Vegas Aviators are entering the final week of the season with plenty at stake. A spot in the Pacific Coast League (PCL) championship series is on the line as they begin a crucial six-game homestand against the El Paso Chihuahuas on Tuesday at Las Vegas Ballpark.

In Triple-A baseball, the season is divided into two halves, and the teams with the best winning percentages in each half face off in a three-game PCL championship series starting September 24. The PCL champion will then play the International League’s champion in a one-game Triple-A National Championship on September 28, also held at Las Vegas Ballpark.

The Sugar Land Space Cowboys have already clinched the first-half title, securing home-field advantage for the PCL championship series. They’re also leading the second half and are likely to finish with the best overall record. Due to this, the team with the next-best winning percentage in the second half will claim the second-half title and the right to play in the championship series. That’s where the Aviators’ playoff hopes come into play.

Aviators in the Playoff Hunt

The Aviators currently hold a 36-32 record, with a winning percentage of .529, placing them three games behind the Reno Aces, who lead with a 39-29 record (.574). The Aces will also be playing a six-game homestand, facing the Albuquerque Isotopes this week. The Aviators will need a strong performance against the Chihuahuas, combined with a few losses from Reno, to keep their playoff hopes alive.

The standings are especially tight in the Pacific Coast League, with the Oklahoma City Baseball Club (35-34) also technically in the mix. While they trail Sugar Land in the East Division and cannot overtake them, they could potentially secure a spot in the championship series if they win at least five of their six games against Salt Lake this week, provided both the Aviators and the Aces stumble.

Strong Momentum for the Aviators

The Aviators head into the final series with a lot of momentum, having won nine of their last 12 games, including a dominant series against Albuquerque. In five of those six games, the Aviators came out on top, scoring in double digits three times. The lone loss was a wild 16-14 contest, but the Aviators bounced back in the final two games, outscoring the Isotopes 25-4.

Infielder Logan Davidson was the standout player during the Albuquerque series, going 14-for-26 with four home runs. Davidson's impressive performance earned him the title of PCL Player of the Week for the second time this season, solidifying his role as a key player in the Aviators’ playoff push.

Looking Ahead: Aviators vs. Chihuahuas

The upcoming series will be the first meeting between the Aviators and Chihuahuas since they split a six-game set in El Paso in June. With the stakes now higher, both teams will be playing with everything on the line. El Paso will look to play spoiler, while the Aviators need every win they can get to overtake Reno and secure a spot in the PCL championship series.

As the Aviators enter this decisive homestand, they will need to maintain their offensive firepower and continue their recent hot streak to keep their playoff dreams alive. Fans at Las Vegas Ballpark will be treated to a week of high-stakes baseball as the team fights for a chance to claim the Pacific Coast League title and potentially play for the Triple-A championship on their home turf.

The Federal Reserve is expected to cut borrowing costs on Wednesday, marking the first rate movement since 2020, when interest rates were set at a 23-year high of 5.25% to 5.5%. As Las Vegas residents prepare for this economic shift, many are wondering what it could mean for their day-to-day financial lives.

Las Vegas mortgage advisor Matt Hennessy explains that now is an ideal time for residents to evaluate their finances, particularly major financial obligations like mortgages, car loans, credit cards, and lines of credit. With U.S. credit card debt recently hitting an all-time high of $1.1 trillion, Hennessy believes the rate cut is a promising sign for those struggling with high monthly payments.

How Will the Rate Cut Help?

Some interest rates, particularly those on credit cards, are expected to drop automatically following the rate cut. For consumers with significant credit card debt, this could provide some relief, although the savings may be modest.

“Lowering the Fed funds rate is likely to be welcomed by consumers who have significant high-interest credit card debt,” Hennessy said. “For example, if a consumer has a $10,000 balance on a credit card with a 25% annual percentage rate (APR), they would spend approximately $2,500 on interest per year. If that APR were reduced to 24%, the savings would amount to $100 annually. While it’s not a huge savings, every little bit helps.”

While this initial cut may provide some relief, many policy analysts believe the Federal Reserve will make additional cuts, possibly bringing the rate down to around 3% over the next few years, depending on the economic outlook. Hennessy advises that residents who want immediate savings should explore refinancing options or renegotiating loans, but those who can afford to wait for further cuts could see even larger savings in the future.

Economic Uncertainty Ahead

While the rate cuts are intended to stimulate the economy, there are concerns that they could have unintended consequences. Some analysts warn that if the economy is weaker than it appears, rate cuts could lead to inflationary pressures, driving up prices and negating the benefits of lower interest rates.

However, the initial rate cut is expected to provide a temporary boost to the U.S. economy. As Hennessy suggests, those who are dealing with debt may find some relief, while others may take a “wait and see” approach, especially given the broader economic uncertainties and the upcoming presidential election.

Impact on Mortgage Rates

Although mortgage rates are not directly tied to the Federal Reserve’s rate cuts, they often move in tandem. Hennessy expects mortgage rates to drop as the Federal Reserve continues to lower rates, providing opportunities for homeowners to refinance their mortgages. He recommends refinancing for anyone who took out a mortgage during the pandemic when rates surged to combat inflation.

Las Vegas real estate agent Jonathan Catalano of ERA Brokers Consolidated adds that while lower mortgage rates could spur some buyers to enter the housing market, it hasn’t translated into higher demand yet. “Even with lower rates, the market has become surprisingly sluggish in the last month or two,” Catalano said. He noted that many homes across various price points have seen price reductions as sellers struggle to attract buyers.

Real Estate Market Concerns

Despite the rate cut, the Las Vegas real estate market continues to see rising home prices, approaching the all-time high set in May 2022. At the same time, the city still leads the country in new listings, suggesting there is a significant amount of inventory for buyers to choose from.

However, Catalano believes the uncertainty surrounding the economy and the upcoming election has caused many buyers to hold off on making purchases. “Buyers have hit the brakes because of their uncertainty in the economy, particularly with the upcoming election,” Catalano said. While historically, elections have not had a significant impact on housing activity, Catalano suspects that this cycle could be different.

“We’ll have to wait and see how buyers react if rates dip into the fives. For now, it seems like buyers are more concerned with economic and political factors than with lower interest rates,” he added.

What’s Next for Las Vegas Residents?

As the Federal Reserve begins cutting interest rates, Las Vegas residents will have opportunities to take advantage of lower borrowing costs. However, the broader economic picture, coupled with the upcoming election, is likely to influence how quickly these changes are felt in the housing market and other financial areas.

For those with high-interest debt, like credit cards, Hennessy recommends paying close attention to rate adjustments and considering refinancing options to take advantage of lower rates. Meanwhile, those in the housing market may need to balance the potential for lower mortgage rates with other economic factors before making significant financial decisions.

✈ Las Vegas Welcomes New Nonstop Flights to London as Norse Atlantic Touches Down

Las Vegas has long been a favorite destination for travelers from across the globe, and on Thursday, Harry Reid International Airport welcomed a new option for direct travel to the city’s most popular overseas destination: London. The inaugural flight of Norse Atlantic Airways Flight 777 touched down in Las Vegas around 3 p.m., marking the start of the airline’s new nonstop round-trip service between London’s Gatwick International Airport and Las Vegas.

The route will operate three times a week—on Thursdays, Sundays, and Tuesdays—providing travelers with a convenient and affordable option for visiting either city. Norse Atlantic founder and CEO Bjørn Tore Larsen was aboard the inaugural flight and mingled with passengers who expressed excitement about their journey to Las Vegas.

Larsen views his airline as a disruptor in the industry, offering low-cost fares to compete with other major airlines. He hopes to gradually expand Norse Atlantic’s presence in Las Vegas, starting with this limited service and potentially increasing both the frequency of flights and the number of routes.

“We’re starting small and building from there,” Larsen said. He noted that the airline’s seasonal operations will continue through March before pausing and resuming in September 2025. Depending on demand, the company may increase flight frequency and explore additional nonstop routes from Las Vegas to other European destinations. “There are other possibilities, but I can’t identify anything yet. But I’m really happy with this start,” he added.

Strong Demand from Day One

The demand for the new service has been strong right from the beginning. Larsen pointed out that the inaugural flight from London was nearly full, and the return flight to London later that day was also near capacity. "We really got the word out about us here, and I think there are enough people who want to fly to London that we can fill our flights regularly,” he said.

Upon arrival in Las Vegas, the more than 300 passengers were welcomed with true Vegas flair. Las Vegas showgirls greeted travelers at the arrival gate, and representatives from the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) offered them cookies decorated with the iconic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign.

When the airline first announced its Las Vegas service in March, it positioned itself as a budget-friendly option for transatlantic travelers. Economy one-way fares were introduced at $299, with premium fares available for $699 one way. The inaugural flight from London took approximately 10 hours and 40 minutes, arriving on time at Harry Reid International Airport.

Norse Atlantic’s Expanding Reach

Norse Atlantic operates a fleet of 10 twin-engine Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, with five more planes on order. The airline has been expanding its international presence since it launched its first flight between Oslo and New York in June 2022. In addition to Las Vegas, the airline offers flights to several U.S. destinations, including New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Orlando, as well as international routes to Oslo, Norway; Athens, Greece; Berlin; Rome; and Paris.

For its Las Vegas-London route, Norse Atlantic will compete with British Airways, which also offers three weekly flights between London Gatwick and Las Vegas. Larsen emphasized that Gatwick is an ideal airport for the airline, as it offers strong transportation links to central London while being smaller and less congested than Heathrow International Airport.

Boosting Tourism in Las Vegas

Fletch Brunelle, vice president of marketing for the LVCVA, was among those who welcomed Larsen and the passengers on the inaugural flight. He noted that the new Norse Atlantic service increases the total number of weekly nonstop flights between Las Vegas and London to 24, further strengthening the city’s position as a key destination for international travelers.

As Las Vegas continues to recover and grow its tourism sector following the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic, the addition of new routes like Norse Atlantic’s service to London is seen as a critical component in maintaining the city’s appeal to global visitors. With its low-cost fares and additional flight options, Norse Atlantic is poised to play a significant role in supporting the city’s tourism and economic recovery.

Looking Ahead

Larsen remains optimistic about the future of Norse Atlantic in Las Vegas, with plans to build on the airline’s initial success. If the current demand is any indicator, Las Vegas travelers will continue to benefit from more affordable and frequent flight options to London and potentially other European destinations as well. As for now, both Las Vegas and London are set to enjoy closer ties, thanks to this new transatlantic route that brings together the world’s entertainment capital and one of its most iconic cities.

Summerlin South, NV Demographics

What is the population of Summerlin South?

What are the employment statistics in Summerlin South?

How many households are there in Summerlin South?

What are the median and average incomes in Summerlin South?

How many homeowners and renters are there in Summerlin South?

What is the level of education in Summerlin South?

What is the marital status of Summerlin South residents?

What are the most common means of transportation in Summerlin South?

Methodology & Disclaimers

Demographic data shown in this section was gathered from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release, the 2022 American Community Survey. The information is updated yearly, as soon as new data is made available by the US Census Bureau.

No representation, guarantee or warranty is made as to the accuracy or completeness of information modified or aggregated for specific neighborhoods and/or zip codes.

Zip codes included in this demographic data: 89135

Summerlin Area Command - Week Ending: September 6, 2024

Courtesy of The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.

📌 🏠 Summerlin South - August 2024

*Median Sold Price By Bedroom Count

This is the middle price for which all homes in the area were sold based on the number of bedrooms. Half of all the homes sold were below this price, and half were above.

Visit here to see the entire report.

📌  We Want To Spotlight Your Business!

Would you like us to spotlight your local business in front of thousands of Summerlin South area residents in an upcoming issue of SummerSouth Insider?

We ❤️ Local Businesses!
We know our community is brimming with businesses that have fascinating stories and big hearts. If you're a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you! "SummerSouth Insider" is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our town. Let's collaborate and let the community know what makes your business special. Send us a message, and let's celebrate the spirit of Summerlin South together!

👇Select an option below:

Own a local Business? Apply to be featured.

📌  We Want Your Feedback!

We read your emails, comments, and poll replies daily.

Hit reply and tell us what you want more of!

Until next time, John Wu.

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.