Reno Commissioners Discuss Traffic and Infrastructure Amid Cold Springs Development Plans

The Reno City Planning Commission meeting on April 2, 2025, highlighted significant developments regarding a new industrial project that promises to reshape local traffic patterns and community infrastructure. A key point of discussion was the projected reduction of approximately 10,000 average daily trips due to the shift from residential to employment-based zoning, which officials believe will alleviate congestion on local roads.

Commissioner Williams expressed concerns about the deferral of pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure details to future entitlements, emphasizing the importance of integrating these elements into the project from the outset. He noted that while the project is expected to generate around $18 million in impact fees for the Regional Transportation Commission (RTC), the lack of immediate plans for sidewalks and bike lanes could diminish their importance over time. In response, Andy Dierling, representing the applicant, assured the commission that the development would adhere to Reno Municipal Code requirements, which mandate the inclusion of sidewalks and bike lanes. He also mentioned plans for a trail system to enhance recreational opportunities for employees in the industrial area.

Additionally, discussions touched on community engagement, particularly with Cold Springs residents who have raised concerns about traffic, quality of life, and light pollution. Dierling reiterated the project's potential to improve traffic flow by reducing competition for road space between residential and employment traffic, suggesting that the shift could lead to a more balanced commuting pattern.

The meeting underscored the commission's commitment to ensuring that infrastructure and community needs are prioritized as the project moves forward, with further negotiations on public service agreements anticipated at the city council level. As the project progresses, the focus will remain on addressing community concerns while fostering economic development in the region.