SELFIES ON THE STRIP STILL OK; JUST MAKE THEM QUICK

Panel sets limits on slowing foot traffic on Vegas overpasses

Tourists hoping to take selfies on pedestrian bridges along the Las Vegas Strip may appear to run the risk of breaking a new law, but officials say they shouldn’t worry.

The Clark County Commission passed an ordinance this month that prohibits stopping or standing on these overpasses or engaging in other activities that slow foot traffic. The ordinance, approved in a unanimous 7-0 vote on Jan. 2, calls for creating “flow zones” on the Strip’s 15 bridges and up to 20 feet on surrounding stairs, escalators or other areas. There are exceptions for stopping for short periods of time that will accommodate people waiting to use the stairs or tying their shoes.

“The Pedestrian Flow Zone ordinance will help to ensure our world-class tourism destination remains a safe place for people to visit,” Jennifer Cooper, Clark County’s chief communications and strategy officer, said in a statement.

County officials have said the ordinance is intended to reduce crime and enhance safety by encouraging continuous, free movement for pedestrians. People who violate the ordinance could face a misdemeanor charge. If they are found guilty, they could face up to six months in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.

However, Clark County officials said the ordinance should not be interpreted to mean that pedestrians can’t take photos along Las Vegas Boulevard while on a pedestrian bridge. A Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department spokesperson said they will continue to conduct regular patrols of the bridges and surrounding areas throughout the Strip, and will encourage pedestrians to voluntarily comply with the ordinance. A pedestrian arrest or citation would be issued on the “rare occasion” that the officer’s warning is objected.

Restrictions on the Las Vegas Strip come months after pedestrians crowded the area’s pedestrian bridges for the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The city expects to see hundreds of thousands of visitors for the Super Bowl next month.

GETTY IMAGES A new law aiming to keep pedestrian flow moving makes it a gamble to stop and snap a selfie on one of Las Vegas Boulevard’s pedestrian overpasses.