Commissioners approve up to $850,000 in rail tax funds for V&T Railway capital projects in FY26
Loading...
Summary
The board authorized allocation of up to $850,000 from Storey County rail tax funds to the Nevada Commission for Reconstruction of the V&T Railway for FY26 capital improvements: about $600–$650k for stabilization/repairs at Overman Pit and roughly $200k for ballast and drainage work in three locations within Storey County.
Storey County commissioners on May 6 approved allocating up to $850,000 from the county's rail tax fund to the Nevada Commission for Reconstruction of the V&T Railway for fiscal year 2026 capital improvements and repairs.
Leah Cruz, treasurer for the Nevada Commission for Reconstruction of the V&T Railway, told commissioners the request covers two projects in Storey County: $600,000–$650,000 for repairs and stabilization at the Overman Pit, and about $200,000 for ballast and drainage work at three county locations. The projects are listed in the railway's capital improvement plan and were described as necessary to maintain safe, operable track.
One commissioner disclosed they serve on the railway commission but said the service does not impair their ability to consider the item; no abstention was recorded by that commissioner. The motion to allocate up to $850,000 passed unanimously.
Why it matters: The Virginia & Truckee Railway is a historic regional asset that operates within the county; the allocation supports track safety and continuity of heritage and tourist rail operations that bring visitors and economic activity.
Next steps: County staff will process the allocation consistent with the county's rail tax fund rules and the railway commission's capital plan.
