Grand Canyon Gateway Community Says No to Tall Buildings

A failed measure to increase the size limits of buildings in an Arizona gateway community will now likely block attempts to build major resorts and hotels outside of Grand Canyon National Park. The Arizona Daily Sun reportsa measure to increase building height limits in the town of Tusayan near the park’s south entrance failed on Tuesday. An Italian developer had hoped to build several structures several stories taller than the town’s 40-foot height limit. The town council approved the developer’s proposal in April, but residents launched a petition to put the ordinance to a vote. Supporters said the height increase could allow the town to grow and accommodate more visitors, but opponents worried about light pollution and impacts to views from the canyon’s North Rim. The developer now plans to submit new plans for shorter buildings.