PROJECT BACKGROUND

The Arlington Avenue Bridges Replacement Project is located in the City of Reno between Island Avenue and West First Street and includes the area of roadway through the three-acre, natural island Wingfield Park. The two, nearly century-old bridges have become structurally deficient because of their age and repeated exposure to flood events. The City of Reno owns the bridges, roadway, and Wingfield Park, which is accessible by the bridges.

The RTC, in cooperation with the City of Reno and other local and federal agencies, completed a feasibility and conceptual alternative analysis in June 2021. A Purpose and Need Statement (project level), consistent with goals in the RTC’s Regional Transportation Plan, was used as the basis for developing and screening alternatives. The four needs identified were 1) Respond to structural deficiencies of existing bridges; 2) Improve pedestrian, bicycle, transit, and traffic safety in the Wingfield Park area; 3) Provide sufficient river-flow capacity of the Truckee River during flood events; and 4) Respond to regional and community plans.

The feasibility study compiled and considered input from the public, stakeholders, and a technical advisory committee. The study resulted in preferred alternatives: a single-pier north bridge to replace the existing double-pier bridge, and a clear-span south bridge to replace the existing clear-span bridge. Stakeholders and the public endorsed a modern, art-deco theme for aesthetics as well.

The RTC has completed the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process required for federally funded projects. (Learn more from a Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) video on NEPA.) During the process, the RTC collaborated with stakeholders and the public to evaluate ways to minimize or avoid adverse environmental effects.

Final design is also complete and permit applications submitted. Construction is currently scheduled to begin in May 2025 with in-river construction beginning July 2025.

As part of the project’s construction, minor adjustments will be made to the existing white water kayak park in the Truckee River on the north side of the Wingfield Park island. These adjustments will help guide river users away from the newly constructed pier under the bridge.