The Problem:

A private development company aimed to entitle a 116-acre site at a key focal point for the Minden, Nevada community. After several meetings to outline the client’s development plans for the property, discussions with local officials were held to address the project and its overall significance to the community. The project was anticipated to be contentious with neighboring residents due to the inclusion of a casino and hotel within the project boundaries. Additionally, a central feature of the planned community included the Martin Slough Multimodal Trail. Implementing the plan required obtaining permits from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to develop a functional wetland and joint-use facilities for walking trails, open space, and regional stormwater management systems that utilize biological treatment along the trail.

The Solution:

A Specific Plan and Master Plan amendment was prepared, which established the vision and implementation strategies for an integrated mixed-use commercial and residential community based on New Urbanism principles. The plan included 800,000 square feet of commercial space, featuring a casino and hotel, a specialty shopping mall, and both vertically and horizontally oriented mixed-use development, along with affordable and market-rate housing options. Working closely with the owner and local officials, community workshops were held to gather feedback. Plans were revised to address valid concerns, and the updated plans were presented for public review a second time before being submitted for official approval.

The Results:

Due to the thorough public review process employed, the project was ultimately approved and adopted by Douglas County. After obtaining the planning approvals, street, drainage, and utility design, hydraulic analysis, boundary and topographic surveys, and construction stakeout were conducted for the Martin Slough Multimodal Trail floodplain to support the infrastructure design of the Monte Vista Avenue crossing.

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