Has the power and influence of Zappos CEO Tony Hsieh spoiled the good intentions of the Downtown Project in Las Vegas?
Ed Komenda takes a critical look at the ongoing revitalization of Downtown Las Vegas. The recent investments in the historic corner of Las Vegas have won praise and political support for Zappos CEO Tony Hsieh, the driving force behind the effort.
After taking over former location of Las Vegas City Hall for the corporate headquarters of Zappos, Hsieh launched the Downtown Project, a “$350 million campaign to transform the area around his new corporate home into a respectable, moneymaking core of commerce and culture. The project plans to invest $200 million in real estate, $50 million in small businesses, $50 million in education and $50 million in tech startups through the Vegas TechFund.”
But while Hsieh has been celebrated for the revival of Downtown Las Vegas, Komenda’s article wonders whether Hsieh has too much power and influence in the neighborhood.
“What could have been a groundbreaking community like San Diego’s Gaslamp District or New Orleans’ Bourbon Street has been transformed into Hsieh’s personal bubble, where it’s either his way or get out of the way, critics say.”
FULL STORY: Is Tony Hsieh downtown Las Vegas’ savior or conqueror?
Tony Hsieh's Legacy in Las Vegas
Tony Hsieh, who achieved international fame as head both of Zappos and the Downtown Project in Las Vegas, died in November. Several articles made an account of the Downtown Project's track record.
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The high-profile Downtown Project in Las Vegas, led by Zappos CEO Tony Hsieh, made the wrong kind of news this week.
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Tony Hsieh laid out a grand ambition two create a more dynamic downtown in Las Vegas that would change cities all over the world. Now, after a series of setbacks and with dwindling funds, that vision seems unlikely to be realized.
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Republican and Democrat lawmakers criticize the plan for its disproportionate negative impact on rural communities.
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Balancing Bombs and Butterflies: How the National Guard Protects a Rare Species
The National Guard at Fort Indiantown Gap uses GIS technology and land management strategies to balance military training with conservation efforts, ensuring the survival of the rare eastern regal fritillary butterfly.
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