CARSON CITY, Nev. — State and local government officials presented a legislative plan laying the groundwork to build a multibillion-dollar light rail system to link McCarran International Airport with the Las Vegas Strip, the Las Vegas Sun reports.

For two years, members of the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada have been drawing blueprints for the light rail and makeovers such as pedestrian bridges or wider sidewalks on the Strip. They're also considering high-capacity transit options to connect residential neighborhoods, college campuses, a hospital, and shopping hubs; however they need the state's permission to fund or implement any plans.

The proposal heard in the Senate Transportation Committee would give local officials new authority to seek tax hikes or federal grants to finance an expanded portfolio of major transportation developments. Senate Bill 201 would also allow them to explore new technology, including self-driving cars. For the full story, click here.