The Reno City Council voted to reallocate funds originally dedicated to the historic Lear Theater at 501 Riverside Drive in Reno.
In March of last year, Council dedicated $1M of its American Rescue Plan Act funds toward repairs and improvements to the building. The design plan began in February of this year. By the set deadline of Nov. 7, the City hadn’t received a single construction bidder or request for an extension.
Renovation plans included:
- Replacement of concrete steps/terrace landing;
- Installation of Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant handrails;
- Landscaping updates, and
- Installation of irrigation system.
If ARPA funds are not dedicated to a project by Dec. 31 they will be required to be returned to the federal government. The Lear Theater already used approximately $172.6K to produce a historic structures report and design, permit and bid documents.
Councilmembers voted to split the remaining $827.4K into other contracts. The current split is:
- $200K for a payroll system consultant;
- $90K for smart technology applications, and
- $300K to the Downtown Reno Partnership beautification.
The remaining funds will go toward business licensing software. (Source)
