(later Old West Corporation), and would feature the history of southern Nevada, with a recreation of 1850s Las Vegas as its theme. Cecil Simmons was the primary organizer of Old Vegas and would later become one of the main financiers for the project. The western theme park and film studio was designed by Shelton with architecture firm Wells, Tate and Kennedy. The project was master planned by Dallas-based LARC (Leisure and Recreation Concepts) with Robert L. Smith Construction as the general contractor. Old Vegas was to be constructed in two phases, with the second phase initially planned to be completed by the end of October 1978. The first phase was under construction in 1977, and was expected to cost $2.5 million, with completion expected in spring 1978. The project would be built on 55 of the 124 acres. Future plans for the remaining 69 acres included a resort ranch, a motel, a camp site, and an apartment complex, all of which would be built after Old Vegas generated the necessary funds. The project's sound stage would be similar to Old Tucson and would include wardrobe and production facilities. The layout of the project's western streets was done by Hollywood art directors to be accommodating to film production companies. The opening of the park's first phase was later scheduled for mid-June 1978, with the entire park expected to be complete by summer 1979. Old Vegas' first phase was later scheduled to open in September 1978, with a cost of $3.5 million. The final cost of the project was expected to be between $7 million and $10 million. During mid-1978, three buildings from the former El Rancho Vegas hotel on the Las Vegas Strip were relocated to become part of Old Vegas, to be restored for future television and film appearances. In August 1978, Old Tucson Corporation reached an agreement to merge with Old West Corporation, the park's developer. Old Vegas was developed as a sister property to Old Tucson, and was built at the southeastern edge of Henderson. Opening and sale Old Vegas opened its first phase in November 1978, with over 100 employees. Phase two would include western buildings and amusement rides, including a stage coach and a steam train. A third phase was also being planned at the time of opening. Located along Boulder Highway was an 11-foot-high bronze statue of Raphael Rivera, advertising the theme park. Also located