Bellagio Under Fire for Cutting Down Fountain Trees for Formula 1 Event
MGM Resorts, the company that operates the Bellagio in Las Vegas, is taking down a strip of trees along the sidewalk outside of the casino. This is being done to make room for a grandstand for the upcoming Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, set to take place from November 16-18.
According to a representative from MGM, the trees that are closest to the river will be temporarily stored and replanted again at a later date. However, the trees that are along Las Vegas Boulevard will be turned into woodchips.
These trees, which number around 45, have been providing much-needed shade for tourists watching the Bellagio fountain show since it started 25 years ago. They are one of the few tree-lined sections on the Strip, offering respite from the desert heat.
Previously, when MGM shared renderings of the F1 grandstand last November, it was clear that removing the Bellagio fountain trees would be necessary for the construction to proceed. Some people had been led to believe that the trees would be removed carefully and then replanted back in their original spots.
Recently, the news of MGM's plan to turn the trees into woodchips has sparked outrage on social media. One user on Twitter, known as Vegas Steve, wrote: "Bellagio is not carefully removing the trees. They are cutting them down. These trees have been there for 25 years. Why not remove them by the roots and replant them somewhere else? Shame on you @bellagio." Another user, @JackieF1nut, expressed dismay, saying: "This is awful. As an F1 fan all I can say is that I'm sorry FOM is destroying half of the Strip for a 3 day event. Makes nonsense of all their sustainability aims."
In response to the backlash, MGM gave a statement to KLAS-TV explaining that their actions are part of their preparations for the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The statement highlighted the importance of improving visibility, mobility, and pedestrian access and safety.
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