The Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) partnered with Parametrix to study the feasibility of a new roadway connection from the Tahoe Reno Industrial (TRI) Center to South Meadows Parkway in South Reno. This study assessed the potential benefits, costs, and overall feasibility of the South Meadows Connector, which could provide congestion relief to I-80 and an alternate route during emergencies.
The study area spans approximately 16 miles from the connector’s western terminus in South Reno, near South Meadows Parkway and Veterans Parkway, to its eastern terminus along USA Parkway near the TRI Center, a rapidly growing hub of economic activity and job creation that currently is accessed from Reno via I-80.
This study considered the potential benefits of this connector, including:
- Reducing traffic volumes and improving operations on I-80, a critical national freight corridor.
- Providing an alternate route during emergencies and I-80 closures, thereby improving emergency response and evacuation capabilities.
- Expanding access to rapidly growing jobs and economic activity.
- Creating opportunities for additional economic investment in the region.
A multi-step evaluation process began with over 75 potential alignment alternatives and culminated in the identification of the three highest-raking alternatives across multiple criteria.
Parametrix completed the feasibility study, including developing alternative alignments, performing high-level environmental analysis, and preparing preliminary designs and cost estimates for the top three alignment alternatives.
NDOT and Parametrix engaged key agency partners, including the Federal Highway Administration, the City of Reno, Storey County, and Washoe County, in addition to a broader range of stakeholders, including private land and business owners in the study area during the analysis and screening of potential alternatives.
“We're committed to supporting NDOT in improving transportation infrastructure and creating access and mobility solutions that supports the region’s economic growth and prosperity."
