The gateway into downtown Las Vegas sign just north of the Stratosphere was officially lit up Tuesday night. The new sign features the iconic Las Vegas showgirl and marks the entry into downtown Las Vegas. The pair of 26 foot tall showgirls now light the way for visitors heading northbound into downtown.
It's a head turner that may not stop traffic, but will surely slow it down. They are modeled after the showgirls that often accompany former mayor Oscar Goodman.
"The showgirls that represent Las Vegas; it's a brand that's better than Coca Cola. It's a brand that's better than Google. It's the brand of Las Vegas," Goodman said recalling the way people were mesmerized by the showgirls who traveled with him to London.
The display replaces another sign that resembled the famous Welcome To Fabulous Las Vegas sign at the south end of The Strip. It was knocked down when a driver crashed into it two years ago.
Soon an archway over Las Vegas Boulevard farther south near Sahara Avenue will complete the new attraction which is an investment in luring people back to the city's core.
Ward 3 Councilman Bob Coffin said there is a new environment downtown.
"They didn't realize what they were leaving behind. Because now what we have,those of us who stayed and those of us who come back are being really really rewarded," said Coffin. Because it's a culture reminiscent of the old small town Las Vegas.
One longtime Las Vegas resident said he loves the new sign.
"We saw the renderings and now when you see it in person it's just beautiful. This a great gateway into downtown. And heck let's remind the world that this is where the strip began."
