TikTok video leads to traffic study and conversations about establishing LGBTQ cultural district near UNLV

LAS VEGAS, Nevada (FOX5) – It all started with a TikTok video filmed at the corner of Paradise and Naples near UNLV – an area known for its LGBTQ bars and nightclubs.

The video shows a group on a nighttime outing running between two bars across Paradise Road, the only part of the intersection without a crosswalk.

“You see this countless times every Friday and Saturday,” said Billy Pilesky, manager of Quadz Las Vegas. “I’ve seen pedestrians crossing the street and unfortunately getting hit by cars. This is a regular occurrence and something our guests have to worry about from bar to bar.”

The video reached Senator Fabian Doñate, who represents the district, who said he would contact Clark County to resolve the issue.

“I wondered why there was no security mechanism or if improvements could be made. Based on this video, we were able to communicate with Clark County to inform us, especially about security in this part of the city,” Doñate said.

Working with the county commission, they have commissioned a traffic study for the intersection to determine if another crosswalk, more lighting or other improvements are needed.

“I would like to see the crosswalk painted in rainbow colors. A little pride for the gay district,” said Pilesky.

But plans for the area could go much further. Doñate said they are also exploring the possibility of officially designating the area as a cultural district for the LGBTQ community.

“I think it’s important that every city has this neighborhood, this gay neighborhood, where members of the LGBTQ community can just go out and have fun, but feel safe and be themselves. And that’s exactly what this neighborhood offers,” Pilesky said.

“Whatever comes out of this, it started as a video, maybe it will evolve into a cultural district, maybe safer streets, but ultimately we just want it to be a place where people can come and feel safe,” Doñate said.

Doñate said they are still in the early stages, but the process of designating an area as a cultural district takes about two years. Similar to the arts district and Little Ethiopia, this designation would help provide funding for monitoring and improving safety in the area and programs to help businesses thrive.

All rights reserved.