Construction for the upcoming Formula 1 race in Las Vegas is causing disruptions for local businesses, particularly at the intersection of Flamingo Road and Koval Lane. Jay’s Market, a gas station and convenience store located at this corner, is experiencing reduced access due to road closures related to the construction of a temporary bridge for the November event.
The owner of Jay’s Market, Wade Bohn, expressed concerns about potential revenue losses. Last year, during F1 construction and the race itself, Bohn reported a $3.5 million loss. This year, with one of the store’s access points blocked off due to bridge construction on Flamingo Road, Bohn fears similar financial impacts.
Currently, customers can still reach Jay’s Market via an entrance on Koval Lane. However, Bohn revealed that this access point will also be affected for four to five days when Koval is closed for bridge construction, effectively turning it into a dead-end street. During this period, Bohn anticipates losing up to 70% of his business.
The situation has frustrated local workers and residents. Brandon Strain, who frequently works in the area, voiced his displeasure with the road closures, stating that they add significant time to his work schedule. He expressed support for the race but criticized its impact on daily life and work in Las Vegas.
In response to community feedback from last year’s event, Formula 1 has made some adjustments to their plans. Lori Nelson-Kraft, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs for F1, stated that they have reduced the size of the Flamingo temporary vehicular bridge from four lanes to two. The bridge will now be located entirely on the south side of Flamingo Road, aiming to maintain access to surrounding businesses and residences.
Nelson-Kraft emphasized F1’s ongoing communication efforts with local stakeholders. Since June, they have held three meetings with businesses in the Flamingo corridor and plan to continue these discussions. She stated that F1 is committed to keeping open lines of communication with affected parties.
Despite these efforts, Bohn remains concerned that people will avoid the area altogether due to the construction. He is urging customers not to stay away from his store and other nearby businesses during this period.
The impact of the F1 preparations extends beyond Jay’s Market. The broader Las Vegas community is experiencing various disruptions as the city prepares to host this high-profile event. While some see the race as an exciting addition to Las Vegas’s entertainment offerings, others are grappling with the practical challenges it presents to daily life and commerce.
The Formula 1 Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix is scheduled to take place from November 21 to November 23. As the event approaches, city officials, F1 organizers, and local businesses continue to navigate the complex balance between hosting a world-class sporting event and maintaining the normal functioning of the city.
This year’s preparations are somewhat less disruptive compared to last year, as the extensive repaving work for the racetrack is not necessary. However, the construction of temporary infrastructure, such as the bridge at Flamingo and Koval, continues to pose challenges for nearby businesses and residents.
As Las Vegas transforms to accommodate the F1 race, the situation at Jay’s Market serves as a microcosm of the broader impacts being felt across the city. The coming weeks will be crucial as businesses, residents, and race organizers work to mitigate disruptions and ensure the success of both the event and the local economy.