Las Vegas city planning commission to hear Harlem Nights project proposal
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Some new developments could soon be on the way on the Historic Westside as the Las Vegas Planning Commission is set to hear a proposal to build a casino resort.
The proposed casino resort would be called, Harlem Nights, named after the 1989 film paying homage to the Historic Westside's history as a vibrant entertainment district for the Black community during the WWII era. The casino would be located on Jackson Avenue and F Street, where the former New Town Tavern used to be.
The 22-story casino resort would have 207 rooms and nearly 11,000 square feet of gaming space, in addition to a food hall, retail area, spa, nightclub, and a rooftop pool. Those who live nearby said they are excited about the concept.
'That area really needs to be built up. The people in that area need jobs and stability,' Daaiyah McDaniels shared.
The casino has been an idea in the works for years. Property owner, Shlomo Meiri shared with 8 News Now that he wants to enhance the Historic Westside and make it a place people want to visit.
Harlem Nights project faces opposition from Las Vegas city planning staff
'The only thing that can revive the Westside is a casino and hotel. Anybody in their right mind would look at the Westside and see that it begs for development,' Meiri said.
On Tuesday, the Las Vegas Planning Commission will discuss the project. It is a concept that Meiri said has experienced a lot of pushback from the city's planning staff.
The 'Moulin Rouge' and 'New Town Tavern' were once major casinos on the Westside, but have since closed. This concept would bring a whole new customer base to the area, which Meiri said could create some competition.
'There are no commercial properties or businesses in the area and with this casino resort, I believe they are scared that I'm going to steal from their black customers away from the Strip,' he added.
In addition to this casino resort, Meiri wants to build a 336-unit apartment complex right around the corner on Van Buren Avenue and G Street which would also include affordable housing units.
The Las Vegas Planning Commission will decide Tuesday if this project will move forward. If it does, it will be discussed at their City Council meeting on June 18.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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