TTD and Mobility Hub Update
- A higher, alternative offer was submitted to the Washoe County School District for the purchase of the Old Elementary School site. The offer proposed included a concept similar to the Village at Northstar. The plan includes mixed use retail/residential, public park and ice skating rink, and underground parking.
- Below are TTD staff quotes minimizing the breadth of public involvement/opposition and invalidating the change.org opposition petition which received nearly 1300 signatures. These TTD staff comments were made to the TTD Board:
- While there were over 200 questions, the number of questions came from a relatively small group of stakeholders. The questions represent the interests of approximately 53 individuals. Four people asked more than 10 questions and two asked more than 25 each – over 90 questions were posed by six individuals.
- As of March 7, this petition (referring to the change.org opposition petition created by a local community member) had over 1,000 supporters. The petition description does not accurately describe the planning, process, use, or decisions yet to be made. It is unknown if these supporters would oppose the protective acquisition of 771 Southwood Boulevard for inclusion in the alternatives analysis. It does reflect concerns, and it underscores the work that TTD must continue to do with outreach to have an informed discussion and engagement.
- The majority of the TTD Board, including Commissioner Hill, voted to move forward with the plan to purchase the Old Elementary School. TTD Board Vice Chair Lucia Maloney stated she was shocked by the amount of distrust from the community and voted against the purchase. “It’s clear the community doesn’t want this,” Maloney said during the meeting. Another concern was raised by TTD Board member Cody Bass, who also voted against the purchase. He stated that if TTD goes through with the purchase and later finds it isn’t a viable location for a mobility hub, TTD could be saddled with the property for many years while trying to sell it Despite considerable resident opposition to the site, Commissioner Hill stated she believes the purchase was in the best interest of the community. Attached here is a recap of the meeting. Additionally, you may click here to watch the meeting video.
- The Washoe County Commissioners will need to approve matching funds to enable TTD’s purchase. This decision is anticipated at an upcoming meeting. To share your thoughts on this pending decision, click here to write the Commissioners.