LAS VEGAS (AP) -- Casino company MGM Resorts International is seeking county approval to demolish the defective Harmon hotel tower on the Las Vegas Strip.
The Las Vegas company said Monday it wants to implode the never-opened building because structural defects prevent it from
being usable.
“CityCenter consulted with experts about the fastest and safest way to resolve public safety concerns created by the structural defect issues at the Harmon’’ said Gordon Absher, vice president of public affairs for MGM Resorts International. “Based on their expert advice, CityCenter is recommending that the structure be demolished by implosion. We have been assured by demolition experts that a properly executed implosion will not pose health or safety problems for residents, visitors and adjacent businesses.”
The plan comes one month after county officials ordered the company to submit plans to resolve structural issues that created
public safety concerns.
A structural engineer says the building wouldn't hold up in a strong earthquake.
The Harmon is part of CityCenter, an $8.5 billion development that opened in December 2009. The Harmon has faced problems
throughout its construction. MGM Resorts and main contractor Tutor Perini Corp. are in litigation over the construction bills.
