Washoe County Board Approves New Sports Fields in Multi-Million Dollar Plan
In a significant development for local recreation, the board comprising Washoe County Commissioners and city council members from Reno and Sparks has given the green light to a $29 million proposal to develop 11 grass-sports fields and up to 900 parking spaces. While the exact costs and scope may evolve, this plan marks a step forward in addressing the shortage of sports fields in the region.
An alternative proposal had envisioned a nature park, drawing support from wildlife and environmental groups, which would have been a more cost-effective option. However, with Jacobs Entertainment recently announcing plans for 12 additional fields in downtown Reno, the focus has shifted towards increasing the number of playing fields amid a growing city population.
Reno City Councilmember Naomi Duerr highlighted the importance of ensuring environmental considerations in the development, stating her support for permeable parking lots and opposition to astroturf. “I am so sensitive to the folks that have advocated for a full nature park and trails, but I think that in terms of our shortages of fields, I think it’s incredible, both as a mental health improvement to our community, as well as economic development to our community, as well as bringing up well-rounded children,” Duerr noted…