Save The Red Rock Canyon Experience

Statement

Nevada's natural treasures are places of staggering beauty and a vital part of life in our state. That is why I was so pleased to see my Natural Treasures legislation pass in the last session.

Still, these areas are under enormous pressure. Nevadans who visit places like Walker Lake, Lake Tahoe and Red Rock Canyon know that traffic through these areas is changing the visitors' experience and in too many cases makes recreational opportunities downright dangerous.

Just ask the thousands of bicyclists who ride the scenic route of State Route 159 through Red Rock Canyon. That road is one of the few remaining roads where bicycling enthusiasts and athletes can enjoy a ride through the beauty of Nevada - together, we are going to keep it that way.

This road is increasingly used as a short-cut for commercial and residential traffic on the west side of the Las Vegas valley. There have been tragic consequences for recreational bicyclists. Ted Abrahams was killed on Sept. 1st, 2004, in an accident with a speeding motorcycle. Recently, bicyclist and police officer Don Albietz was struck by a driver last week, leaving him in critical condition. Witnesses told the police that the driver stopped briefly and then fled the scene, according to news reports of the incident.

Funds have been set-aside by the Nevada Department of Transportation to help with this issue, but now is the time for all of us to rally and work together to make Red Rock Canyon safe for every user of the area.

As Governor, I will lead state government into proactive solutions to protect Nevada's natural treasures and make sure that recreation is safe for residents and tourists alike.

Here is where I need your help:

Sign the Petition in the Web Diary and Share your Thoughts

This is an important issue. Nevadans and visitors collectively make millions of visits to our state's scenic natural areas each year, and the economic activity for outdoor recreation in Nevada amounts to tens of millions of dollars annually. Sign the petition today and together we'll lead the way to protect Red Rock Canyon and the safety of all its visitors.

Dina Titus, Nevada State Senator

Source