Local Business Owner Stages One-Man Protest Against Formula One’s Impact on Small Businesses and Hospitality Workers in Las Vegas
Local Business Owner Stages One-Man Protest Against Formula One’s Impact on Small Businesses and Hospitality Workers
LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – Wade Bohn, the owner of Jay’s Market in Las Vegas, took a stand outside Formula One’s American headquarters to protest the race’s impact on small businesses and hospitality workers in the area. Bohn, along with a group of small businesses, is seeking compensation for layoffs, profit losses, and disruptions caused by the annual race.
Bohn’s protest highlighted the names of the affected businesses, resort workers, and rideshare drivers who have been negatively impacted by the race. He expressed his frustration, stating, “To destroy all these businesses in an hour and a half race once a year does not make sense. I thought, why not take it to their front doorstep?”
In response to the concerns raised by Bohn and others, Las Vegas Grand Prix Chief Executive Officer, Renee Wilm, acknowledged the disruptions caused by the race and promised a significantly different experience for locals in the upcoming year. Wilm assured that there would be less construction and disruptions this year, with a focus on improving communication and community engagement.
Despite the economic impact of the race on the Las Vegas Valley, with an estimated $1.2 billion generated in revenue, Bohn remains adamant that changes need to be made to address the concerns of local businesses and workers. He specifically mentioned the Flamingo Bridge as a point of contention, stating that it should not return in future races.
As Clark County sets a deadline for an expedited traffic plan to be submitted by May 1, the debate over the impact of Formula One on the local community continues. While F1 did not respond to requests for comment on Bohn’s protest, the conversation around finding a balance between economic benefits and community concerns remains ongoing.
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