The Fontainebleau: Las Vegas’s Abandoned Mega Project

The Fontainebleau: Las Vegas’s Abandoned Mega Project

The Fontainebleau in Las Vegas is a hotel mega project that has stood abandoned for many years. The project faced numerous challenges, leading to its prolonged delay. Now, after years of problems, the hotel is finally set to open in 2024. This blog explores the reasons behind the project’s standstill and the eventual path to its completion.

A Brief History of the Fontainebleau

The Fontainebleau was originally conceived in the early 2000s as a luxury resort and casino, designed to rival the city’s biggest names. Construction began in 2007, with a projected opening date of 2009. However, the project quickly ran into trouble.

Challenges and Delays

The Fontainebleau’s downfall can be attributed to a combination of factors:

• The Great Recession: The 2008 financial crisis hit the Las Vegas economy hard, making it difficult to secure financing for the project.
• Rising Construction Costs: The cost of building materials and labor skyrocketed during the project’s development, further straining the budget.
• Management Changes: The project went through several ownership changes and management shake-ups, which led to delays and uncertainty.
• Legal Battles: The project was embroiled in legal disputes with contractors and creditors, further hindering progress.

The Project’s Revival

After years of inactivity, the Fontainebleau project was finally revived in 2021. New ownership took over, promising to complete the project and open the hotel in 2024. The new owners have pledged to invest heavily in the project, ensuring its completion and success.

What to Expect

The Fontainebleau is expected to be a major addition to the Las Vegas Strip. It will feature:

• Over 3,700 hotel rooms and suites
• A large casino floor
• Multiple restaurants and bars
• A world-class spa and fitness center
• A variety of entertainment venues

Conclusion

The Fontainebleau’s journey has been long and winding, but the project is finally nearing completion. The hotel is expected to be a major draw for visitors to Las Vegas, offering luxury accommodations and a wide range of amenities. The Fontainebleau’s story is a testament to the resilience of the Las Vegas market and the enduring allure of the city’s entertainment scene.