Publication Date: November 4, 2025, 02:34h.
Updated On: November 4, 2025, 02:45h.
- A new initiative aims to construct a 2,200-space parking garage near eight substantial fuel tanks at Harry Reid International Airport.
- Airport authorities have expressed safety reservations regarding the proposed location of the structure.
- The fuel tanks at the airport were previously highlighted during the Harvest Music Festival tragedy in 2017.
The Clark County Commission is set to make a decision on Wednesday, November 5, regarding a contentious proposal for a new parking structure at Las Vegas’ Harry Reid International Airport. This proposal has raised safety issues due to its close proximity to eight large jet fuel tanks, with the nearest being less than 100 feet away.
The planned 2,200-car facility would be located on 3.8 acres just north of Terminal 1, an area presently used by the airline catering service, Sky Chefs, which is set to be demolished. Terminal 1 accommodates Las Vegas’ busiest airline, Southwest.
The garage proposal originates from American Nevada Co., a prominent developer recognized for its master-planned communities and commercial projects across Las Vegas. Founded in 1972 by Hank Greenspun, the former publisher of the Las Vegas Sun, and his wife, Barbara, the company has deep roots in the community.
As indicated in a county staff report acquired by the Las Vegas Review-Journal, the Clark County Department of Aviation, which manages the airport, has identified numerous safety and security issues regarding the project.
One significant concern entails that the new structure would create a direct line of sight to the fuel tanks.
Per the staff report, the developer must install a solid wall that blocks visibility of the tanks and airfield from any point in the parking garage, particularly from the roof. Furthermore, the garage must be equipped with a “vehicle crash mitigation rail” capable of halting a 15,000-pound vehicle traveling at 50 mph.
A fuel tank on the west side of the airport was targeted by Stephen Paddock during the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival shooting that resulted in 58 fatalities on October 1, 2017. Initial reports indicated that two bullets struck the tank but caused minimal damage.
Hank Greenspun’s family members maintain strong connections to local governance. Clark County Commission chair Jim Gibson was previously the president and CEO of the travel agency Vegas.com from 2010 to 2013, during its ownership by the Greenspun Corporation.
A public comment opportunity is scheduled for the commission meeting on Wednesday.