Bellagio Las Vegas is cutting down trees to accommodate the construction of an F1 grandstand in preparation for the November 16th – 18th, 2023 Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix.
The Bellagio F1 grandstand is an MGM Resort venture in association with Formula 1 that will see the development of a tall and long grandstand atop the Bellagio Lake in front of Bellagio Las Vegas.
This development will obscure the beautiful lake and hinder visitors from enjoying a great view of the Bellagio fountains – a beloved free show in Las Vegas.
Not only that, trees that have stood in front of the hotel for decades will also be removed for the grandstand construction.
Initially, there was hope that these 25+ year-old trees would be relocated. In an earlier statement, MGM Resorts stated that the trees, which have for so long provided shade to buskers in the Vegas heat, would be ‘temporarily and safely removed.’
They even marked the tree locations with ‘X’ marks, indicating they were marked for relocation. However, they have gone against their word since it has now been confirmed that they will permanently cut down the trees in front of the Bellagio fountains.
In a September 7, 2023 statement, MGM Resorts responded with the following comment: “This work is part of preparations for the Las Vegas Grand Prix and our efforts to provide the best possible experience through improved visibility, mobility, and pedestrian access and safety.”
Additionally, MGM Resorts stated that the removed trees would be recycled into woodchips for local parks.
This is one of many changes expected to happen to the Las Vegas landscape in the coming months and maybe years of hosting Formula 1. Frustration among many locals is apparent; many blame the public officials for underestimating the disruption F1 might cause to the entertainment City.
Experts have projected that the Formula 1 race will inject $1.3 billion into the Las Vegas economy. However, skepticism abounds regarding the accuracy of this estimate, and the community is concerned about the many inconveniences that may follow.
Currently, in terms of the Bellagio trees, the locals hope that when new trees are planted after the grandstand is dismantled, their roots will be contained, facilitating their annual removal and replacement.