Exclusive Interview with Las Vegas Mayor Goodman, Part Two
In Part One, Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman discussed the NFL, critics, and the Oakland fans. Now, she elaborates on the Nevada side of the matter.
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When we spoke a year ago, you sounded certain about the move. What gave you such confidence?
A: I have the utmost confidence in Las Vegas. We were ready for major league sports and that has been proven out with the Golden Knights of the NHL and the Raiders of the NFL. Never bet against Las Vegas. We are the number one brand in the world and everyone wants to be a part of what we are.
What is the response of the citizens? How have they responded to the team?
A: The response has been of true excitement. Beyond enjoying a huge Raiders following living in Las Vegas, people generally are electrified by the thought of having its own NFL team. Many of us remember the galvanizing effect that the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels, coached by the great Jerry Tarkanian, had on this city. No matter where I go, residents and tourists alike stop me to find out when I expect the stadium completion and start of play.
UNLV gets a state of the art stadium. Where will this impact the Rebels most?
A: when you look at the landscape of major college sports, we know that football is the largest revenue generator. Schools with state-of-the-art stadiums and facilities so often build strong teams that get ready to compete for championships. So, we see this ahead for Rebel Football with a stadium being molded like those in Dallas and what is currently under construction in Los Angeles. All the UNLV boosters and the entire Rebels family are very excited about what this stadium will do for the program.
In your years there, you’ve seen Vegas evolve from an adult destination to a family-oriented city, how will the Raiders figure into that?
A: certainly Las Vegas has something for everyone from world-class entertainment, five-star gourmet dining, fabulous boutique shopping, golf, spas, outdoor activities and nightlife. However, we know what we are – the world’s top convention and tourism destination. For a time in the 1990,s there was a focus on family offerings. For example, we even had a theme park behind the MGM Grand. But, Las Vegas has always been an adult playground where you can have the time of your life. The Raiders fit right in with our brand. just think of taking a long weekend in Las Vegas, having dinner at a celebrity chef’s restaurant, seeing a top entertainer and then Sunday afternoon catching an NFL game. What could be better?
Normally, cooperation between city and state officials is a long process. Describe the work with Governor Sandoval and the state.
A: Certainly, a lot of work went into the process from the state and the local governments. Everyone focused on working together, as a cohesive unit. The governor was a great coach throughout.
What will the next 2-3 years entail for Las Vegas’ preparation entail?
A: A big build-up of excitement and great marketing as we prepare for the Raiders arrival. The key remains getting the stadium built, and built quickly. The best site is in the heart of downtown on the 60-acre Cashman complex site that the city owns. The entire infrastructure is in place at that site. Plus, road projects that will add additional access points are already underway and totally funded. This site enables us to build quickly and efficiently, saving at least $200 million. As a result, this ensures that no additional infrastructure costs are born by our residents. With the Raiders management ready quickly with engineering, design, and build out plans, there is a strong possibility that the stadium could be ready for the 2019 season. However. those decisions and preparations must happen soon!!!
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