FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE        November 27, 2006
Contact:  Kirsten Cannon        (702) 515-5057

Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center Environmental Assessment Available for Review

Las Vegas - The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Las Vegas Field Office is proposing to construct a new visitor center at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.  The public is being asked for their comments on the plans which were analyzed in a draft environmental assessment which was released today.  Public comment will be accepted through December 27, 2006. 

The proposed action allows for:
• Construction of a new visitor center next to the existing visitor center.  The new visitor center would consist of an arrival structure containing the reception and temporary exhibit space; a classroom; storage area; gift shop and restroom; exterior exhibits; amphitheater; and  pavilions offering interpretive experiences
• Remodel of the current visitor center into administrative offices
• Construction of a new fee collection station allowing more space for staff; structure over four automobile lanes and secondary collection booth islands; and landscaping
• Parking lot modification and striping to improve parking circulation
• Extend a Las Vegas Valley Water District water line from Summerlin development to the visitor center
• Installation of additional toilets and a new septic system

Funding for the project was approved by the Secretary of the Interior under round four of the Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act.  In total, funding for this project has been approved for $23.1 million.  Completion of the new visitor center is anticipated in summer 2010.
 To view the environmental assessment, please visit www.nv.blm.gov/vegas.  
Written comments may be mailed on or before December 27, 2006 to the BLM Las Vegas Field Office, Attn:  Michael Reiland, 4701 N. Torrey Pines, Las Vegas, NV  89130. 
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