LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – A proposed hotel by the Las Vegas Strip offers a feature for the faithful that Jewish leaders, tourists and locals alike say has been needed for years: a synagogue and kosher restaurant offerings.
The proposal’s documents have been submitted to the Clark County Zoning Commission for the April 3 meeting, but will be postponed for an upcoming date in the next few weeks.
Documents show the “King David Hotel” would be 648 feet high with 486 rooms.
“The proposed hotel includes a place of worship (synagogue) with uses and amenities aligned with the Jewish faith and culture. The uses and amenities provided in the hotel will include the standard fare as well as kosher restaurants and amenities which are otherwise unavailable in the immediate area. The closest synagogue to the subject area is approximately four miles from the Las Vegas Strip and the resort corridor,” said a justification letter to County planning officials.
The nearest synagogue is Chabad of Southern Nevada off Arville, according to Rabbi Levi Harlig, and the house of worship may see up to 100 tourists on weekends who make their way through Strip traffic for prayer.
Rabbi Harlig tells FOX5, when numerous people are in town for conventions, he will gather people in prayer in ballrooms at properties from the Wynn, Venetian and Mandalay Bay—but a synagogue has been needed and in demand for some time.
Locals tell FOX5, a big challenge for business travelers or relatives is the lack of kosher options across the Strip; the proposed hotel and its restaurants and banquets can accommodate large groups and can host important religious occasions like weddings, bar or bat mitzvahs, holidays or events.
Dr. Amanda Belarmino of the William F. Harrah College of Hospitality tracks tourism trends and has helped properties accommodate Jewish guests during the Sabbath or holidays.
“A property that’s built to that is going to cater to an underserved audience,” Dr. Belarmino said.
“The Guardian Angel is right there on the Strip. That caters to people who want to worship in the Catholic faith. Las Vegas has a lot of places of worship for our citizens,” she said. “There are some niches that can be filled by non gaming properties, and maybe this is one of them,” Belarmino said.
The developer declined to comment on the proposal until the proposal makes its way through the Clark County Commission.
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