During San Diego's downturn Las Vegas was a leader in churning out new jobs. Although still dominated by gaming, high-tech has been expanding impressively. Hotel chains and large-brand companies, which historically shunned Las Vegas because of its unflattering image, are now looking to it for locations, land and redevelopment opportunities. Almost every publicly owned building company is represented here. Retirement villages abound and sell very well.
Water is a strategic commodity, increasing here and there in cost.
Deserts are like that. Las Vegas is strong competition for our conventions, investor dollars and jobs. It has the same ocean and sunshine, sensationally planned communities and a better awareness of transportation and transit infrastructure. Having invested so much time lately studying these two competitors, I don't think we understand our position in the Southwest. But I hope that at least we care.