Basically we don't build basements in the west because there was lots of land and it was just cheaper to pour a slab of concrete. Some people do have basements, though. Also that area of Nevada is full of mines, which took a lot of digging by hand, yet was possible. People are very motivated looking for gold or valuable minerals. The mines were dug before the government came and bought up the land and so are still there. They were also easy to enlarge by the government.

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Anyway, I'm enjoying your alt universe. More soon!
regards
Artemis

History is easy once you've lived it. - Duncan MacLeod
Writing history is easy once you've lived it. - Artemis