South Lake Tahoe (Hickman: home, casinos, to live in)

[Jose Montara]

This is an interesting article on South Lake, over development wrecks another town
[quote]
South Lake Tahoe is no longer the charming mountain town it once was, according to an article in today’s edition of The Wall Street Journal.

“Massive redevelopment and an influx of wealth in recent years have all but wiped out the old kitschy charm of Tahoe’s southern shore,” author Marisa Milanese writes. “As the transformation proceeds, the area is trying to become all things to all people: an upscale resort town as well as a draw for the younger set looking for all-night clubs and tequila shots.”

The article continues to note that many longtime residents have fled the area as home prices have climbed, a phenomenon seen in many aging resort towns, such as Atlantic City and Aspen, Colo. In response, bumper stickers reading “Keep Tahoe Blue Collar” have recently emerged, a play on the environmentalist message “Keep Tahoe Blue,” Milanese writes.

“So many of the old fun places seem to have disappeared,” former resident Whit Hickman tells the paper. “There’s a lot more to do now. But I still miss the old stuff.”

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[gizmo980]

That's sad... I used to live in SLT, and it was such a charming place. But I left right around the time they started "building it up," so I saw this coming! I'm sure it will still keep some of the charm, though - and they can't physically make it too big, due to the mountains & such.

[tahoesash]

that article is a bit overblown, but that's ok.

[Tahoephoto]

I have lived here for 23 yrs. and this article makes South Lake Tahoe look like we had a complete face lift. If you only stayed at Stateline near the Casinos, it would appear that way. Should you travel in any direction for 15 minutes you would still see South Shore the way you rememberd. Great beaches, and world class Mountains. Remember the old run down shops that were at stateline? Gone, in thier place are more recognisable shops and upscale stores. Travel to the "Y" outlet stores and you can still find shops that have been there for years! I still see some old familiar faces working around town. Not all of us have left, nor do we want to leave!! Tim