Cranes Rise Over the Bellagio Fountains During Strip Construction

Construction cranes dominate the Las Vegas Strip in 2008, a period of significant expansion for the city's resort and casino industry. The image shows several large-scale projects underway, including what would become the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, a luxury resort and casino that broke ground in 2007. This era of development reflected the city's continued growth as a major tourist destination, despite the looming economic recession. The construction sites represent the ambition and investment poured into creating new entertainment venues and accommodations on the famed Las Vegas Boulevard.

Taken April 2008