Editorial: Palm trees worth city's investment

Gov. Kenny Guinn likes beautification projects but he told his state Transportation Board colleagues last week that the palm trees on Las Vegas Boulevard that connect the Strip and downtown were "extreme." He cited their expense but we respectfully disagree.

The $1.4 million in federal and city funds spent on the trees was a sound investment, especially for a tourist destination. Resorts contributed an additional $18 million to beautify the Strip, which was also money well spent.

The sad truth is that many of us who live in Las Vegas and others who visit here would hardly rate the city among the most picturesque in the country. Sure, we have plenty of vistas that provide spectacular views of the valley. But drive around town and one is forced to concede that the city is not very green.

The palm trees add color and character where such features did not exist. Palm trees are expensive, but so what? Las Vegas has a well-deserved international reputation for doing things with a big splash. Palm trees are consistent with that reputation.

We need to beautify downtown if we wish to keep up with other cities that attract tourists to their urban cores. Palm trees were an excellent choice for Las Vegas Boulevard. We can only hope that other streets downtown will follow that example.

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