Clark County officials are facing a tough choice on the fate of New Orleans Square, a historic landmark in the Commercial Center area of Las Vegas. The county purchased the property for $6.5 million and now estimates that a full renovation could cost as much as $25.3 million, while demolition would run about $3.8 million.
Renovation costs and needed repairs
Commissioner Tick Segerblom told reporters that a recent inspection uncovered extensive problems, including roof leaks, holes, failing sewer lines, drainage issues and deteriorating stucco. “We discovered all these issues that we have to, basically, rehab the whole thing,” Segerblom said.
The proposed renovation plan calls for a complete roof replacement, new sewer and drainage systems, and extensive stucco repairs. County leaders envision the restored building serving educational and arts purposes in partnership with the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and the organizers of the Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC).
Impact on current tenants
Despite the uncertainty, the building’s tenants continue to operate. Monica Gresser, principal architect at Brazen Architecture, moved her office into New Orleans Square under the previous owner. She noted that the tenant roster has shrunk dramatically, from about 30 businesses when she arrived to just eight today.
“What was great about it when we moved in was all the activity that was happening here,” Gresser said. “I really would like to see New Orleans Square be renovated. I think it would be a great thing for the community and a catalyst for the rest of Commercial Center to redevelop and be redefined.”
Segerblom said the county plans to cover relocation fees for any businesses that must move during a renovation, emphasizing a commitment to treat long‑time occupants fairly and to allow them to return if they wish.
Upcoming vote and political context
The next commission vote is slated for early December. Commissioners will decide whether to allocate the higher renovation budget or to approve a less expensive demolition that would level the historic structure.
The decision comes at a politically sensitive time. Several county commissioners are up for re‑election, and one seat will be vacant, raising the possibility that the officials who approved the original $6.5 million purchase may not be the same who decide the final outcome.
Community perspective
Local advocates argue that preserving New Orleans Square would honor the city’s heritage, recalling visits by the Rat Pack and Elvis Presley, and could spur further investment in the surrounding area. Preservation supporters see the renovation as an opportunity to reinforce community identity and to provide a venue for arts and education.
Opponents point to the steep price tag and question whether the county can justify spending tens of millions on a single building when other public needs compete for limited funds.
What’s at stake
Choosing renovation would preserve a piece of Las Vegas history and potentially attract new businesses and cultural events. Opting for demolition would free up the site for new development but would erase a landmark that many residents associate with the city’s mid‑century glamour.
Clark County residents will have the chance to weigh in during the public comment period before the December vote. The outcome will shape not only the fate of New Orleans Square but also the broader trajectory of the Commercial Center district.
Original reporting: News 3 KSNV Las Vegas (local) — read the source article.
