UNLV Listed 10-Acre Campus Site for $39.9 Million
The university cleared the former Paradise Campus land for sale near the Tropicana intersection.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Commercial
Live Poll
Should universities sell their vacant land for private commercial development projects?
UNLV has listed a 10.2-acre parcel near the intersection of Tropicana Avenue and University Center Drive for $39.9 million. The property, which sits just 1.5 miles from the Strip, was formerly home to the university's Paradise Campus before buildings were demolished in early 2024.
Why it matters
The sale marks a shift in university real estate strategy as UNLV looks to divest from land no longer required for academic use. Prospective developers must navigate complex height restrictions due to the site's proximity to flight paths at Harry Reid International Airport.
The university has listed 10.2 acres for $39.9 million, valuing the site at roughly $4 million per acre. Whether the site will attract significant interest remains unknown after the Clark County Department of Aviation previously declined to purchase the land.
The players
UNLV
The university owns the property and is currently seeking a buyer for the land.
Clark County Department of Aviation
The agency previously owned the land and has oversight of surrounding airspace.
Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents
The governing board must approve any sale of the property.
The Boring Co.
The company previously held unsuccessful negotiations with the university for a portion of the site.
The details
UNLV acquired the property through a real estate exchange with the Clark County Department of Aviation. Following the completed demolition of the campus in spring 2024, the site is now being marketed at a valuation set by independent appraisals. Any successful sale must be approved by the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents, and developers should note that FAA height restrictions could limit future project scopes at the site.
Timeline
1949: Four original buildings were constructed on the site.
1998-2008: UNLV leased the land from the aviation department.
Spring 2024: Demolition of the former Paradise Campus buildings reached completion.
October 2, 2026: UNLV officially listed the property for sale.
Beyond the Strip
This listing follows a long history of land transfers between the university and the Clark County Department of Aviation. The sale concludes a period where the site served under various leases and institutional uses before becoming surplus property.
Commuters passing the intersection of Tropicana and University Center Drive will see the vacant site on the market, which may eventually lead to new construction after years of demolition work. Residents should watch for upcoming Board of Regents meeting agendas for updates on potential buyer approvals.
The takeaway
The university is offloading prime land that has been cleared and is ready for redevelopment pending regulatory approvals. Residents can watch for public updates regarding the sale process through the Board of Regents' future hearing schedules.
Further reading
For more on large-scale property developments in the valley, see Commercial.
Live Poll
Should universities sell their vacant land for private commercial development projects?
