Elon Musk’s underground transportation project in Las Vegas, known as the Vegas Loop, is drawing fresh scrutiny from Nevada lawmakers. This comes amid concerns about workplace safety and environmental compliance. The network of Tesla-driven tunnels is already popular with visitors, but new questions are emerging about conditions beneath the Las Vegas Strip.
Musk’s Vegas Loop Scrutiny Intensifies
Nevada lawmakers grilled state safety officials during a recent committee session about allegations tied to Elon Musk’s Vegas Loop project, which is managed by The Boring Company. Lawmakers highlighted workplace safety complaints and environmental violations that have emerged since construction began.
According to records from the Nevada State Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 17 complaints were filed between 2020 and 2026 regarding safety conditions at the tunnel project. Those complaints include claims of workers suffering chemical burns while handling hazardous materials. There were also allegations of missing personal protective equipment. Some cases remain open, and lawmakers expressed frustration with the pace of inspections and enforcement.
In addition to safety concerns, officials raised environmental questions about unpermitted wastewater discharges and tunnel-drilling waste entering municipal sewer systems. The Boring Company has paid nearly $600,000 in fines to local agencies, including penalties related to untreated wastewater discharges. The company is currently contesting approximately $355,000 in additional fines with both Nevada OSHA and the state’s Division of Environmental Protection.
During the hearings, several legislators emphasized that the concerns extend beyond worker incidents to the transparency of how fines are assessed and contested. Some lawmakers indicated they may pursue new legislation to expedite safety reviews and set tighter timelines for contesting violations.
The Complaints That Drew Concern
Lawmakers repeatedly pointed to specific incidents that raised red flags during their hearings. One notable case involved an employee suffering a crushing injury after being pinned between two pipes inside a tunnel. The incident reportedly required a crane to free the worker. Other reports referenced firefighters and workers sustaining chemical burns during training exercises and work shifts.
State documents show that Nevada OSHA reduced some safety fines, including more than $400,000 related to chemical burn claims, following a legal review. The move drew criticism from fire officials and labor advocates. Furthermore, retired firefighters participating in training exercises expressed concern. They noted that the lack of safety requirements or corrective measures could put future responders and workers at risk.
The Boring Company has defended its safety record, stating that it conducts daily inspections and safety training to protect workers. In statements to lawmakers, the company highlighted its procedures for maintaining tunnel conditions and emphasized its focus on employee well-being. However, critics argue that the fines and ongoing complaints indicate that deeper issues warrant attention.
Inside Elon Musk’s Vegas Loop Project
The Vegas Loop first opened in 2021 as a people-moving solution beneath the Las Vegas Convention Center. The tunnel system uses Tesla vehicles to ferry passengers. In addition, it is part of an approved expansion plan that could extend the network to as many as 104 stations over roughly 68 miles. The project is privately funded and intended to provide an alternative transit option in a city with limited public transportation.
Despite the political scrutiny, local officials have also praised the tunnel’s convenience and potential benefits for tourism and daily travel. Per AP News, Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley said the city is excited to bring innovative transportation options to visitors and residents alike, noting that the tunnel system could evolve into a broader network connecting key parts of the valley.
