LAS VEGAS -- The Las Vegas skyline could change forever with two world-renowned observation wheels on the Strip.
The High Roller and Skyvue are in competition with each other, and leaders of both projects said they are on track to open in just over a year.
On the south strip, Skyvue officials said it will open a world class observation wheel.
At this point, the High Roller is ahead in the construction race as Caesars Entertainment constructs the Linq, its new dining and entertainment district to be anchored by the observation wheel.
"We're in full-swing production right now," said David Codiga, executive project director of the Linq.
Caesars plans to finish construction of the Linq in late 2013.
"We've got everything underway, Codiga said. "We've been working on this project for years, and so we've been planning and prepping. I think we're in a very good place and continue to get our work done, so that we can be ready to roll."
Howard Bulloch, principal of Skyvue, said manufacturing for their observation wheel is taking place all over the world, from nearby Kingman, Ariz. to Belgium.
"We're very excited about the components and the things that are being done and how they'll be delivered here in the next few months," Bulloch said. "Then you'll see construction really kick into high gear."
With its enormous lighted signs, Skyvue promises to have the largest digital content platform on the planet.
But according to Caesars, its $550 million open-air retail, dining and entertainment district will redefine the iconic Las Vegas skyline.
David Schwartz, director of UNLV's Center for Gaming Research, said people are drawn to observation wheels and is a good concept for Las Vegas.
"You should remember that it's easy to break ground in this city," he said. "Up until a couple of years ago, it was even easy to get topped off. But if you look at Fountainbleau, that's a reminder that just because you're doing construction doesn't necessarily mean that you're going to finish it."
Both projects are betting their sky-high attractions will be winners.
According to Clark County, Caesars is further along with the required permitting process.
The Las Vegas skyline could change forever with two world-renowned observation wheels on the Strip.
